European Ryder Cup captain Padraig Harrington has cast doubt on September's matches against the USA being staged without spectators.

The biennial event is due to be held between Europe and the USA in Wisconsin between September 25th and 27th.

Harrington spoke to Off the Ball last month and was open to backing a 'safe' tournament behind closed doors, but the prevailing wind appears to have shifted somewhat.

The Dublin native has told BBC 5 Live that it's unlikely the tournament would be held without fans.

"There’s no doubt that it makes the tournament so much better. I think the common consensus now is the Ryder Cup will not be played unless the fans are there.

"Non-golfers and golfers around the world watch the Ryder Cup because of the tension that’s created by the spectators.”

The Open Championship at Royal St George's in July has been cancelled, with the US PGA Championship rescheduled for August, the US Open for September and the Masters for November.

Harrington says that the pandemic has created significant uncertainty.

"The only reason for the Ryder Cup not being there, and that’s outside everybody’s hands, is the coronavirus. It’s not something that’s within our control.

"There are bigger things too than the Ryder Cup. You know it’s a big deal in golf but we have to see the bigger picture.

“I hope that we get our chance to play. I think it’s something that can bring people together and is something to look forward to and enjoy.”