Europe's captain Darren Clarke reckons he has a great blend of players for the Ryder Cup
Tuesday 23 August 2016 16:51, UK
Europe's captain Darren Clarke believes he has the ideal mix of players following the confirmation of his nine automatic qualifiers for the Ryder Cup.
On Sunday, England's Matt Fitzpatrick became the ninth and final qualifier to secure a place in the team that is seeking a record fourth successive triumph over the United States.
Fitzpatrick will be one of at least five rookies lining up alongside more seasoned campaigners like Rory McIlroy and Henrik Stenson in the biennial contest that starts on September 30 at Hazeltine.
"I am absolutely delighted with the nine players who have qualified," Clarke said, looking ahead to the trip to Minnesota.
"They offer not only a fantastic blend of youth and experience but also some exciting partnership possibilities."
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The Northern Irishman is set to name his three wildcard picks on Monday.
"In the experienced corner we have two men who have lit up the world of golf in recent weeks, Open champion Henrik Stenson and Olympic champion Justin Rose, joined by Sergio Garcia and Rory McIlroy who, aside from being two of the most dynamic Ryder Cup performers of recent years, are also winners this year... Sergio in the U.S. and Rory in Europe," said Clarke.
"In the rookies' corner it is very rare you begin any such list with the reigning Masters champion but we are fortunate to do just that with Danny Willett, while Rafa Cabrera Bello, Matt Fitzpatrick, Andy Sullivan and Chris Wood bring a mixture of consistency and success."
