Darren Clarke believes that the Ryder Cup is "more special" than tournaments on the tour because it is a team game.
The Irishman will lead Europe at Hazeltine in Minnesota next year after being selected as captain last week.
Yesterday, it was confirmed that Clarke will go up against a USA team guided by Davis Love III.
"It's one of those things that, as a professional golfer, you've got to play in it to understand it," Clarke told the Belfast Telegraph.
"Golf is predominantly an individual sport and because this a team thing, it makes it even more special. You want to go out there and play well for your team."
Europe are the holders of the trophy following victory at Gleneagles last year.
