Swede Fredrik Jacobson is the fourth highest European in the world rankings and he would have been in Europe’s line-up automatically if he had eagled the final hole of the BMW International Open in Munich yesterday and gone ahead of Montgomerie into third place.

But after only managing a par five and just missing out on points – for the second successive week under Europe’s new qualifying system – Jacobson was told by Langer that he had gone for Donald instead.

By then Donald, having finished 20th, had left, presumably fearing that because he had not been told anything he was the unlucky one.

Langer’s explanation of that was that he did not make up his mind until knowing who was in the automatic top 10 and so the first Donald knew was when he received a text on his mobile phone from a member of his management team.

“Obviously I am delighted to have been picked,” he said from Switzerland, where he plays later this week. “To play in the Ryder Cup is a dream. It is something I have wanted to do ever since I turned professional and to get the chance now is just amazing.

“It was a very, very nervous day with all that was going on, but it will prove to be a day to remember for me the way things have turned out.

“I was a little stuck for words when I read the text message – I still am - but I know I will not be intimidated.”

Montgomerie, meanwhile, commented: “I am delighted. I was never 100% sure, but was thinking positively when I went in to see Bernhard.

“He knew what I could do because he played with me (in three different matches) and felt I could help the team. It has been a tough time for me, but it is great news for me personally.”

Langer said: “He was thrilled and very excited and thanked me for including him. I know he has had a difficult time with his divorce and personal breakdown, but I think he is coming out of it.

“I think he will gain a lot of confidence from the way he has played this week and he brings some leadership. I don’t know anybody who has a problem with me picking him and if they do I feel sorry for them. He can handle the pressure and put pressure on the other team.

“I had several conversations with Colin and told him the situation. I never gave the nod to anybody – he still had to perform.

“I wanted all the players I was considering to show me what they are made of. I think he will rise to the occasion. We know there are players who crumble under pressure.”

At the official announcement Langer actually said “Colin Montgomerie of England”, but there are five English players in the team not six – Lee Westwood and debutants Donald, Paul Casey, David Howell and Ian Poulter.

Donald has taken only three years to make the jump from Walker Cup player – he won seven out of eight points – to Ryder Cup player.

“I know the Walker Cup is not quite on the same level, but it is match play and there is pride on the line,” stated Langer. “He has won over $1.5m (€1.2m) in the States this year and then he comes over and wins the Scandinavian Masters.”

Jacobson was desperately unfortunate, but Langer gave the edge to Donald because he thinks his game is better-suited to Oakland Hills. While the Swede is among the US Tour’s top 10 putters this season Donald hits far more fairways and greens.

“I had my chances to get in and it is a huge disappointment, especially coming up just short on both qualifying tables,” said Jacobson.

“I thought that being so close and the fourth best European would give me a big chance. I also play well in match play.” He was the unbeaten top-scorer for Continental Europe in the Seve Trophy last November.

Jacobson, however, is now on stand-by in case there are any injuries among the top 10 automatic qualifiers and if Montgomerie or Donald cannot play he could also be called in to replace them.

Meanwhile, Langer has added Dane Thomas Bjorn to his backroom team, joining Swedes Anders Forsbrand and Joakim Haeggman.