Sainz tees up with Djokovic for All-Star Ryder Cup match

Carlos Sainz traveled back from Japan, picked up his golf clubs and clocked in at the Marco Simone Golf and Country Club near Rome for an All-Star Ryder Cup match that pitted him against tennis legend Novak Djokovic.

Paired with disabled tour pro Tommaso Perrino, Sainz showed impressive skills, but the Singapore Grand Prix winner and his partner – despite some strong local support – were nevertheless defeated 3-1 by Djoko and G4D Tour player Kip Popert.

The Ryder Cup competition between teams from the United States and Europe, which takes place every two years, will kick off in earnest on Friday.

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.