BBC Sportgolf

Ryder Cup rookie Hansen does not have the big reputation, glittering array of silverware, or multi-million dollar sponsorship deals which most of his more experienced European team-mates boast.

But the Dane is there on merit having shown some fantastic form in the past two years and will be thoroughly determined to prove his worth.

Copenhagen-born Hansen turned professional just over 10 years ago and, since joining the European Tour in 1999, has picked up two tournament wins.

The 2002 Irish Open, where he won at the fourth extra hole in a play-off against Richard Bland, Niclas Fasth and Darren Fichardt was the highlight, while he also convincingly won the 2007 Mercedes-Benz Championship by four strokes.

His best Order of Merit finish was eighth in 2007 and has this year he has come third in the Spanish and French Opens, so Hansen's star is burning ever brighter.

Hansen's best ever major finish was eighth at the Open in 2002 but, having represented Denmark in the World Cup five times since 1998, Hansen is well used to the challenges of playing an individual sport within the framework of a team.