London: Europe's Ryder Cup captain Darren Clarke has hailed his "fantastic blend of youth and experience" following the confirmation of his nine automatic qualifiers for next month's event at Hazeltine, Minnesota.

On Sunday, England's Matt Fitzpatrick became the ninth and final qualifier to seal his spot in the team that is seeking a record fourth successive triumph over the United States.

Fitzpatrick will be one of at least five rookies lining up alongside more seasoned campaigners like Rory McIlroy and Henrik Stenson in the biennial contest that starts on September 30.

"I am absolutely delighted with the nine players who have qualified," Clarke said in a statement. "They offer not only a fantastic blend of youth and experience but also some exciting partnership possibilities. We have a fantastic team."

Clarke added: "In the experienced corner we have two men who have lit up the world of golf in recent weeks - Open champion Henrik Stenson and Olympic champion Justin Rose, joined by Sergio Garcia and Rory McIlroy."