Colin Montgomerie named Ryder Cup captain

Colin Montgomerie has been named the new European Ryder Cup captain tasked with winning back the trophy when the Americans visit Celtic Manor in Wales next year.

The European tour committee made the announcement in Dubai ahead of the Race to Dubai’s Dubai Desert Classic.

"This is obviously one of my proudest moments," said the Scot.

"It is a huge responsibility having lost the last Ryder Cup.It is important we do everything we can to claim back the Ryder Cup in 2010."

Jose Maria Olazabal and Ian Woosnam were also in contention, but Montgomerie was widely tipped since he voiced his interest in the role recently. 

Although the news will be welcomed by the Tour pros in contention for next year’s contest - Paul Casey being one of the latest to speak of his admiration for the Scot – renown coach Butch Harmon recently admitted his concern should Monty be selected.

“I was very surprised that Colin Montgomerie wanted to be captain because I think Olazabal and Monty could still make the team,” said Harmon just a few days ago. 

The eight-time Order of Merit winner was widely expected to lead the European side in the 2014 contest in his native Scotland, but he now has the chance to skipper the side as they look to win the Cup straight back from Corey Pavin’s men. 

Montgomerie, 45, has played 36 Ryder Cup matches over eight separate tournaments from 1991-2006, and has amassed 23½ points in that time.

Where next?

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