FARMINGDALE, N.Y. — Team Europe has reclaimed the Ryder Cup, showcasing their dominance in recent encounters with the United States, who are left grappling with their performance in this increasingly lopsided series.
Shane Lowry etched his name in the annals of Irish sports history by sinking a pivotal 6-foot birdie putt on the 18th hole, ensuring Europe retained the Cup. His crucial shot followed Tyrrell Hatton’s halved match, sealing Europe’s outright victory in the event for the 11th time in the last 15 iterations.
Under the leadership of captain Luke Donald, Europe has achieved a historic milestone, becoming the first team to secure back-to-back Ryder Cup victories since Tony Jacklin did it in 1985 and 1987. Donald retained 11 of the same players from the 2021 team that triumphed in Rome, an impressive feat, especially competing on American soil at the famously challenging Bethpage Black, all while facing a zealous and boisterous crowd.
The final score of Europe 15, United States 13, was the only notable surprise of the competition.
The Americans, however, showed considerable resolve and made the results closer than anticipated, mountings a comeback from the largest deficit ever experienced on a Ryder Cup Sunday.
Moments during the final day suggested a potential revival on the American side.
Cameron Young and Justin Thomas both won their matches dramatically on the 18th hole, while Bryson DeChambeau salvaged a halve after trailing by 5 holes. Scottie Scheffler managed to avoid a complete defeat by edging out Rory McIlroy in their match.
The resilient Lowry, who faced intense local scrutiny throughout the week, had the final say as he birdied three of the last four holes. His decisive putt aligned him with other Irish legends who have delivered remarkable Ryder Cup performances, such as Graeme McDowell in 2010, Darren Clarke at The K Club, and Paul McGinley at The Belfry.
Russell Henley, holding a 1-up lead, had two opportunities to secure a birdie with ten-foot putts on the closing holes but faltered by leaving both attempts short. This left the stage open for Lowry, who capitalized on the chance and ignited a euphoric celebration as thousands of fans poured out of the venue.
Reflecting on the moment, Lowry shared with his caddie as they approached the 18th, “I have a chance to do the coolest thing in my life.”
Indeed, he accomplished just that.
The American team matched a Ryder Cup record by garnering 8½ points from the 12 singles matches but ultimately needed a total of 10 points for victory.
Although the Americans maintain a significant historical edge with a 27-16-2 record against Europe dating back to 1927, the modern format of the Ryder Cup began in 1979, welcoming continental Europe. Since this turn, Europe has achieved the ultimate prize 13 out of 19 times.
Rory McIlroy emphasized the importance of clinching an away Ryder Cup, categorizing it among the highest achievements in golf. Nevertheless, Europe’s success in away matches is not unprecedented; they have claimed five of the last ten competitions held outside their borders.
Europe’s elite players exhibited their prowess at Bethpage Black throughout the tournament, all while enduring the jibes and jeers from the audience. They built an impressive seven-point lead prior to the concluding singles matches, demonstrating their superiority.
Before a single shot was played, Europe placed a half-point on the board due to circumstances involving Viktor Hovland, who withdrew with a neck injury, along with Harris English, whose name was included in a pre-match strategy envelope. As a result, the match was deemed halved.
This setback intensified the challenge for the Americans, who needed to secure nine of the remaining matches and halve another to reclaim the cup.
In a bold effort, they fought valiantly, finally enjoying some cheer, breaking the cycle of boos that had previously dominated the atmosphere directed toward their European rivals.
“They played better than us,” admitted U.S. captain Keegan Bradley, reflecting on his team’s performance with a possible regret regarding the course setup. Though Bethpage Black is known for its challenges, the trimmed rough and recent heavy rains softened the greens, leading to an unusual number of birdies.
As the competitive tension subsided, the European squad commenced their well-deserved celebration, marking yet another chapter in the distinguished history of the Ryder Cup.
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