Olazabal named 2012 Ryder Cup captain

The 44-year-old Spaniard has been the only name mentioned for next year's defence of the trophy in Chicago, and was the overwhelming favourite for the post when the European Tour's tournament committee meets in Abu Dhabi.

He has this morning accepted an invitation to captain the team at Medinah in 2012.

Despite his continuing battle with rheumatism - he played only three events last year - Olazabal's character, record and standing in the game all point to him being an outstanding leader of the side.

"He is an honourable, incredible man - I haven't heard one person who wouldn't love to see him as captain," said European Tour chief executive George O'Grady long before the players' committee gathered to discuss the job.

Winner of seven caps as a player, Olazabal made his debut at Muirfield Village in 1987 alongside compatriot Seve Ballesteros.

They won their first three games together as Europe triumphed on American soil for the first time and went on to be beaten only twice in 15 contests.

His last appearance was at the K Club near Dublin five years ago - he won all his three games there - but after that he served as Nick Faldo's assistant in Louisville and then joined Colin Montgomerie's backroom team at Celtic Manor last October.