Cape Town - US captain Davis Love III on Sunday named Ryan Moore as his final wildcard for the upcoming Ryder Cup, meaning the experienced Bubba Watson misses out.
Love made the call just hours after Moore had lost out in a sudden-death playoff to Rory McIlroy at the Tour Championship.
The in-form Moore, who shot a 64 to make the playoff at East Lake, had been considered an outsider for the final spot, but Love has chosen based on his recent showings.
"Ryan fits so well with what we have in place," Love said, commenting on his pick. "He's an easy-going, thoughtful guy, but don't be fooled, Ryan's a great match-play player with an incredible match-play record.
"He has guts and determination and everyone saw that (on Sunday). We are thrilled to have him with us."
Moore’s inclusion also shuts the door for more experienced Watson, currently ranked number seven in the world.
Commenting on Twitter, Watson wrote: "Congrats to @ryanmoorepga & all the guys who made @RyderCupUSA team #GoUSA."
The other wild cards on the US team are Matt Kuchar, Rickie Fowler, and JB Holmes
Thirty-three-year old Moore is the second rookie on the US team after Brooks Koepka. Europe have six players making their debut, increasing the team's markets.