Player Profile: The 2012 Ryder Cup Teams

Next week the United States and Europe will face off in the bi-annual Ryder Cup, with each side determined to claim the trophy in one of golf's most competitive and entertaining tournaments. This week's player profile introduces golf fans to the American and European talent that will be gracing the course in Medinah, Illinois during this year's Ryder Cup.

Since its establishment in 1927, the Ryder Cup has been played every two years with the tournament taking place in the US and Europe (or the UK) on an alternating basis. This year the Cup returns to the United States as the European Team seeks to retain its 2010 title while the United States is eager to seize the trophy on home soil.

Team Europe

Captained by Jose Maria Olazabal, the European Team includes some of the best players in international golf. World number one Rory McIlroy is playing his second Ryder Cup for Europe, and with his recent red-hot form, the young champion is the player most likely to intimidate members of the opposing team. Other notable players on the team include Luke Donald and Lee Westwood - also recent world number ones, Sergio Garcia, Martin Kaymer, Graeme McDowell, and Francesco Molinari. You may visit the official European team website for a full listing.

Team USA

With Davis Love III at the helm, the American team is keen to unseat Europe as the reigning Ryder Cup side. Team USA includes some of the biggest names on the US PGA Tour, including Phil Mickelson, Keegan Bradley, Jim Furyk, Brandt Snedeker and former world number one Tiger Woods. These American golfers have produced excellent performances on the Tour this season and with a home team advantage they may succeed in keeping the Ryder Cup trophy on American soil. The Team USA website has full details on this year's players.

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