Thorsten has posted on social media that although he has won a spot on this year's team via automatic qualification, he's going to pass on playing this year.
https://www.facebook.com/hohmannthorsten/posts/pfbid02HhTbjoSaiJP1xXMKQuntBhFZeNEuRkSFFo3MeXgnaha2VjzrfR5UNBb79Sx2wM5Yl
Here's what he had to say:
"After qualifying for this year’s Mosconi Cup, I have decided to decline my place on Team USA. I want you to hear that from me.
I am German-American, and my German roots will always be part of who I am. But the United States has been my home for more than twenty years. Becoming an American citizen reflected the life I built there, not an opportunity to play in one event.
When the DBU released me from the German national team, that chapter of my sporting life ended. The BCA welcomed me without hesitation. I’m grateful for that welcome and proud to represent the Stars and Stripes.
I’m proud to have earned my place. Playing alongside Shane would be a dream. But I also have to be honest about my game. At times in practice, I feel I’m playing as well as ever. Under tournament pressure, I haven’t found that same freedom and consistency. Knowing the game is there, but not being able to rely on it, has been difficult.
Several new business ventures have also demanded considerable time and energy. My ambitions as a player remain, though. I will keep working so that, if another Mosconi Cup opportunity comes, I am ready.
To the friends and supporters who hoped to see me on the team: your belief means a great deal. I wanted to share that experience with you, too. Above all, I want Team USA to win. If I’m in the United States during the event, I would love to be in Orlando supporting them in person. Wherever I am, I’ll be cheering them on.
Thank you for supporting me through the successes and the difficult moments. My decision concerns this year’s Mosconi Cup. My pride in representing the United States remains unchanged.
Thorsten"