Colin Montgomerie was appointed 2010 Ryder Cup captain by the European Tour's tournament committee on Wednesday.
The eight-times European number one replaces Nick Faldo, who was in charge for last year's 16 1/2-11 1/2 defeat by United States in Valhalla, Kentucky.
‘I am proud and honoured to be selected captain,’ Montgomerie told a news conference. ‘It is a huge responsibility having lost the last Ryder Cup.
‘It is important we do everything we can to claim the Ryder Cup back.’
Although he failed to qualify for the biennial match in 2008, the 45-year-old Montgomerie has a wealth of Ryder Cup experience.
In 2006 the burly Briton became the second European after Bernhard Langer to play in five winning teams. He was also unbeaten in eight singles matches after making his debut in 1991.
Montgomerie (23 1/2) is third on the list of Europe's leading points scorers but his appointment as skipper appears to have ended his hopes of breaking Faldo's record haul of 25.
The Scot will be up against United States captain Corey Pavin when the 2010 Ryder Cup is played at the Celtic Manor resort in Newport, Wales from Oct. 1-3.
Montgomerie named Ryder Cup captain
