Nicolas Colsaerts

The 29-year-old Brussels-born Colsaerts is the only new cap in the European team and will be the first Belgian to play in the Ryder Cup. In 2009 he was ranked only 1,305th in the world but has blossomed in the past two years, winning the China Open in 2011 and the Volvo Match Play this year while slashing his ranking to No 35. One of the longest hitters in world golf, his massive driving is likely to be a valuable asset at lengthy Medinah which is likely to play long given the number of bombers on the US team. His selection as one of Jose Maria Olazabal's two wildcard picks came as no surprise to many given his excellent season. As well as the Volvo Match Play win, he was also seventh in this year's Open Championship after posting opening and closing 65s. He says on his website: "I miss team sports very much, and always thought of myself as a very good asset in any team event. Too bad we don't get to play more team events in professional status." After making his debut in last year's Seve Trophy he'll now have the chance to play in one of the biggest team events in world sport.