The world number five welcomed the Belgian's addition to Darren Clarke's side
Clarke handed Pieters a Captain's Pick after the Belgian's European Tour win in Denmark last week. Pieter's selection may have come as a surprise, given that the likes of Russell Knox was overlooked. Knox is ranked higher than seven of the players in the European team.
McIlroy on Clarke's Selections:
However McIlroy backed the inclusion of the young Belgian and agreed with Clarke's other two Captain's Picks (Lee Westwood and Martin Kaymer). McIltoy added that Clarke had a fairly unenviable task in making his selections, "I wouldn't have liked to be in Darren's shoes" said McIlroy "It was a tough choice to make"
McIlroy added that Pieters would be a great addition to the team and that he was excited about the prospect of winning a fourth Ryder Cup.
The final twelve. #TeamEurope pic.twitter.com/Iu0vMk9Pe7
— Ryder Cup Team EUR (@RyderCupEurope) August 30, 2016