Love returns to go head-to-head with Clarke

Love was the captain in 2012 when the USA threw away a 10-4 lead on Saturday afternoon to lose 14.5-13.5 to Europe in what became known as the ‘Miracle at Medinah’.

And he has now been handed a second chance at the job as the Americans attempt to avoid a fourth consecutive defeat following their 16.5-11.5 loss at Gleneagles in September.

Love’s first act as captain at a press conference in Florida was to appoint Tom Lehman as one of his four vice-captains.

Lehman, the 1996 Open champion, captained the United States in 2006 as Europe claimed an 18.5-9.5 win at the K Club.

“I am thrilled to be the Team USA Captain and represent our country as we work to win back the Ryder Cup,” said Love.

“It is a great honour to be in the position to help build the team, but our mission doesn’t end there. What we accomplish in 2016 at Hazeltine must serve as the foundation for future USA Ryder Cup teams.

“As the son of a PGA Professional and representing all PGA members, I am very proud to accept this responsibility and eager to get started.”

He added: “I am very pleased that Tom Lehman has accepted to serve as a vice-captain, bringing his outstanding experience and the respect of all players to our next Team.

“Tom has been a trusted friend who I can call upon to provide valuable advice as we go about preparing Team USA.”

Love was part of an 11-man task force charged to look into all aspects of the United States’ approach to the Ryder Cup after they suffered an eighth defeat in the last 10 contests in Scotland.

Love was not being talked about in the same terms initially but now becomes the eighth man to captain the United States on multiple occasions, joining Walter Hagen, Sam Snead, Ben Hogan, Arnold Palmer, Jack Burke, Jack Nicklaus and Watson.

Love will go head-to-head with Darren Clarke, who was announced as Europe’s captain last week.