Sword of Damocles

The Greek legend, relating to the court of the tyrant Dionysus II, is a useful illustration of the pressure facing Lee Westwood. The story recounts how Damocles, ever the sycophant, was lauding his masters position of power and authority. Unimpressed, Dionysus offered to switch places with his foolish courtier. While Damocles sat preening himself in the opulent throne, Dionysus ordered that a sword be suspended above it, kept aloft by a single horse hair. It symbolically represented the constant fear and pressure of the king's perilous rule, and soon enough Damocles recognised his folly and moved aside.

It was a rather surreal moment when Tiger Woods slipped off the summit of the World rankings. The writing had been on the wall for some time but that did not lessen the revelation that the all conquering Woods was no longer number one. To coin a biblical phrase "How are the mighty fallen".

With Kaymer now supplanting him in second place the eyes of the golfing world will be transfixed on Torrey Pines where Woods will commence his 2011 riposte. The course is certainly a favourite of his with five wins in five starts dating back to his 2008 US Open triumph. The portents are good for a dramatic fightback.

Westwood's lead in the rankings is significant enough to afford him a gradual return to his scintillating 2009/10 performances. The big question is whether the stunning form of Kaymer and the weight of being the world's best will sit comfortably on his broad shoulders.

McDowell appears to be the dark horse of this tale, slowly stalking his way up the table and having slain Tiger before Christmas and with the US Open in his trophy cabinet, will fancy his chances.

How much of a distraction the 'sword' will prove to Westwood is yet to be seen. What is exciting for golf fans, is the titanic tussle brewing at golf's top table.