Europe successfully defended their Ryder Cup title after a tense final day battle against the USA at Bethpage Black in New York. Shane Lowry clinched the decisive point on the 18th hole against Russell Henley to level the match and propel Luke Donald’s team to the crucial 14-point threshold.
Tyrrell Hatton then secured a draw in his match against Collin Morikawa, pushing Europe to 14.5 points and clinching the victory. Robert MacIntyre halved his match with Sam Burns, sealing Europe’s triumph with a final score of 15-13.
Needing just two and a half points from the 12 singles matches on the final day, Europe faced a setback when Viktor Hovland withdrew due to a shoulder injury, resulting in a halved match with Harris English. Despite strong performances from Cameron Young, Justin Thomas, and Xander Schauffele, who defeated Justin Rose, Tommy Fleetwood, and Jon Rahm, respectively, the gap narrowed and tension mounted for the European team.
Ludvig Aberg emerged as the lone European victor on Sunday, defeating Patrick Cantlay and bringing Europe within touching distance of victory. Matt Fitzpatrick also drew his match with Bryson DeChambeau, maintaining Europe’s lead with just one more tie needed from the remaining matches.
Scottie Scheffler, who had previously suffered four defeats, delayed Europe’s celebration by defeating Rory McIlroy, while JJ Spaun overcame Sepp Straka. However, Shane Lowry’s composed performance in the crucial final moments secured the half-point needed for Europe to clinch the Ryder Cup, sparking jubilant celebrations among the team.
Expressing his emotions after securing the title in an interview with Sky Sports, Lowry described the Ryder Cup as his ultimate achievement, emphasizing the team’s resilience against a determined American side. He praised captain Luke Donald for his leadership and expressed hopes for a win despite retaining the cup.
In the wake of Lowry’s pivotal putt, Ben Griffin’s victory over Rasmus Hojgaard kept the USA’s hopes alive for a potential comeback to level the score at 14-14. However, Hatton’s draw with Morikawa and Donald’s revelry marked Europe’s outright triumph.
Reflecting on the intense competition, Donald acknowledged the Americans’ formidable challenge and commended his team for their unity and historic achievement, highlighting their enduring legacy in golf history.
Europe’s dominance in the initial two days, highlighted by victories in the foursomes and fourballs, set the stage for their ultimate triumph. Stellar performances from key players like Hatton, Rahm, Fleetwood, and Rose contributed to Europe’s commanding lead, culminating in their successful defense of the Ryder Cup.
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