European Ryder Cup captain Darren Clarke opted for a blend of experience and firepower with his three captain’s picks Tuesday.
In a news conference at European Tour headquarters in Wentworth, England, Clarke tabbed Lee Westwood, Martin Kaymer and Thomas Pieters to fill out the 12-man roster that will take on the Americans at Hazeltine on Sept. 30-Oct. 2.
The Europeans have won eight of the past 10 matches, but this year’s squad will look much different, with six rookies.
That’s one of the main reasons why Clarke chose Westwood, who will be playing in his 10th Ryder Cup (20-15-6 record), and Kaymer, who made his fourth team in a row (4-3-3).