BBC Sportgolf

Hunter Mahan is the Ian Poulter of the US team: a controversial wildcard pick precisely because of his controversial and outspoken nature.

Caused uproar in July when he bizarrely slammed the Ryder Cup, stating that players are "slaves" for the tournament week because they have "massive dinnners every night" - meaning huge contests - which leave little time for preparation.

Nevertheless US captain Paul Azinger has chosen Mahan, widely touted one of America's most promising young golfers.

He only turned professional in 2003, making it through qualifying school to earn a PGA Tour card for the following season and after his first PGA Tour victory at the 2007 Travelers Championship, he zoomed into the world top 100 ranking.

By March 2008 he was in the top 30.

His performances in 2007 even caught the eye of Jack Nicklaus, who as captain selected Mahan in his US Presidents Cup team which lifted the trophy.

Came sixth at The Open in 2007, his best finish in a major to date, but Mahan's career is about looking forward.

Although, should he help the US win the 2008 Ryder Cup, no doubt this loose-tongued comment will come back to haunt him: "The PGA of America could care less about winning it, honestly."