There are many factors but the captain has to have a good reputation among fellow golfers and preferably be a former PGA Champion. I'm sure there are other factors at stake as well. The 2010 team USA captain is Corey Pavin and team Europe captain is Colin Montgomerie. Both are very experienced golfers and near the same age (50). Corey has 27 professional wins and Colin has 40 wins. My preview of the 2010 Ryder Cup is here aussiepunter.com/news/sport/2010-ryder-cup-preview
Ireland's Paul McGinley will captain Europe in the 2014 Ryder Cup.
Hal Sutton.
It was Tom Watson.
Nick Faldo
Ted Ray.
Paul McGinley for the 2014 competition
You will need to be picked by your local Golfing Union or Association.
He captained Europe to Victory in 2004.
He captained the victorious 2002 side, but he did not play a match as captain.
He captained the team in 2002.
Walter Hegan has captained USA six times.
Colin Montgomerie, Europe and Corey Pavin, USA.