It's a different dynamic now in the European team largely because America dominates where the majority of players play. The oft quoted 'bond' that the Europeans had in comparison to the Americans is more of a myth that the Captains try and cling on to than reality. Half the team are permanently US based: Rahm, Garcia, Poulter, Casey, Hovland, McIlroy and, with the exception of Westwood (maybe Weisberger as well) who I think spends more time here because of his kids, the others play most of their golf in the States as well. Those who qualified through the tour rather than on world ranking points did so primarily through the majors and WGC events rather than week in, week out in Europe.