In the latest of our series profiling the players confirmed a place in Darren Clarke’s European side for The 2016 Ryder Cup at Hazeltine National, we take a closer look at Spanish rookie Rafa Cabrera Bello.

Background

Grew up next to a golf course in the Canary Islands, the proud Spaniard claimed his National Championship every year from Under-seven to Under-18 level after taking the game up at the age of six. Studied business, economics and business law at university, but still has to complete his degree after his studies were interrupted by his rise through the professional golfing ranks as he finished 14th on the 2006 Challenge Tour Rankings to break through to the European Tour in 2007.

Photo Credit: Getty Images

Career Record

European Tour appearances: 275
European Tour wins: 2
Top ten finishes: 35
Career earnings: €7,713,913

Ryder Cup record

2016 Rookie

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2016 Qualification highlights

After a generally poor start to qualification, he has enjoyed an incredible level of consistency in 2016 – producing eight top ten finishes around the world to guarantee a Ryder Cup debut. Highlights of a heavy points-scoring campaign included back-to-back second place finishes during the European Tour’s Desert Swing at the beginning of the year; defeating Rory McIlory at the WGC – Dell Match Play Championship to take third place; and a fourth place finish at the 100th Open de France, a tournament which carried enhanced Ryder Cup qualification points.

Cabrera Bello’s form during the points race:

Photo Credit: Team Europe

Key quotes

“I grew up watching The Ryder Cup and it is without doubt the most exciting event in golf. I remember watching it on TV and dreaming of doing playing in it one day. Spain has such a strong connection and tradition with The Ryder Cup as well so it means a lot for me to make it.”