Farmingdale (US), Sep 29 (AP) — With the largest lead in Ryder Cup history, Team Europe seemed poised for a comfortable victory. However, the final day at Bethpage Black saw heightened emotions as the U.S. launched an unexpected comeback, ultimately concluding with Shane Lowry etching his name among Irish golfing heroes.
The European team had anticipated an early celebration but soon found themselves checking the score nervously as the passionate New York crowd finally had a reason to support the U.S. team. The situation evolved from seemingly impossible to improbable, eventually hinting at the possibility of a comeback.
Lowry, who faced considerable heckling from the local crowd, delivered the pivotal moment. He sank a crucial 6-foot birdie putt against Russell Henley, securing the half-point Europe needed to retain the 17-inch gold trophy. His jubilation was uncontrollable as he pumped his fists, twirled on the green, and embraced every teammate in sight. Lowry shared, “I told my caddie while walking up the 18th fairway, ‘I have a chance to do the coolest thing in my life here.’ The Ryder Cup means everything to me.”
This sentiment was echoed by the entire European team. Despite the final score being closer than expected, Europe’s dominance in recent Ryder Cups remains unmistakable. Out of the last 14 events, Europe has claimed victory 11 times and achieved their fifth win on U.S. soil over the last 10 attempts.
Luke Donald, after joining Tony Jacklin as the only European captains to win consecutive Ryder Cups, said, “They'll be talking about this team for a long time.”
Tyrrell Hatton went unbeaten through four matches, securing a halve against Collin Morikawa that clinched Europe's outright win. The final tally stood at Europe 15, United States 13, a scoreline that surprised many.
“Shoutout to the Americans,” said Donald. “We knew they'd be tough, but I didn’t expect them to be quite this tough on Sunday. They fought incredibly hard, and I have immense respect for them. This victory means a lot, not just to me but to our entire team. We came in knowing the task was difficult. I couldn't be prouder of our guys, their unity, their nod to history, and those who played before us. They’ll be remembered for generations.”
The Americans showed remarkable resilience, reducing a seven-point deficit, and for a moment, a comeback seemed within reach.
Cameron Young and Justin Thomas chalked up wins on the 18th hole, while Bryson DeChambeau rallied from 5 down to earn a halve. Scottie Scheffler avoided a blanking by defeating Rory McIlroy.
“It was an uphill battle,” said Thomas. “I’m glad Cam and I managed to finish strong and at least gave us a glimmer of hope.”
Xander Schauffele added to the U.S. tally with a commanding 4 and 3 win over Jon Rahm, and U.S. Open champion J.J. Spaun also notched a victory. However, apart from Ludvig Åberg’s defeat of Patrick Cantlay, Europe didn’t initially appear poised to win their coveted half-point.
But that’s when Lowry stepped up to the challenge. Down by two with four holes remaining, he birdied three of the last four holes. The final putt secured not only the victory but also his place amongst Irish legends like Graeme McDowell, Darren Clarke, and Paul McGinley, all of whom have left their marks on Ryder Cup history.
“We gave it everything,” reflected U.S. captain Keegan Bradley.
The Americans equaled a Ryder Cup record by securing 8 1/2 points from 12 singles matches, though they needed 10 points to win.
Despite the 27-16-2 series lead the U.S. holds since 1927, it is Europe who has commanded the modern era. Since 1979, when continental players were included, Europe has captured the cup in 13 of 19 appearances.
Rory McIlroy commented that winning a road Ryder Cup ranks among the sport’s great feats, although Europe has claimed victory in five of the last ten events held in the U.S.
At Bethpage Black, the scene was set with Europe maintaining a record seven-point lead amid taunting from New York fans. Even before play began, Europe added a half-point thanks to Viktor Hovland’s withdrawal due to a neck injury. Harris English, selected in a secret envelope for such an occurrence, also stepped down, resulting in a tied match.
Facing the need to win nine of 11 remaining matches with just one half to retain hope, the U.S. effort was spirited. Ultimately, it was the earlier groundwork and Europe’s position that sealed the triumph, making it another historic victory for Team Europe on American soil.
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