New York – Europe delivered a statement performance on the opening day of the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black in Farmingdale, New York, establishing a commanding 5.5–2.5 lead over the United States. The European team surged in both sessions, putting pressure on the Americans despite a high-profile visit from President Donald Trump in the afternoon.
Europe captain Luke Donald celebrated the strong start. “Incredible day,” he said, adding, “Winning this morning was huge for us. Guys grinded to win the session this afternoon. Love where we are. I’m so proud of these guys.” (Credit: Supersport post-match presentation).
Morning Foursomes Blitz
Europe set the tone early, dominating the morning foursomes matches with three decisive victories for an early 3–1 cushion. The American stars, including Scottie Scheffler and Bryson DeChambeau, struggled to gain ground, losing crucial points.
- Jon Rahm continued his pairs excellence, teaming with Tyrrell Hatton to defeat DeChambeau and Justin Thomas 4&3. This win extended the duo’s perfect foursomes record to 5-0. Rahm emphasized the need to maintain momentum, saying, “We started great and we have to keep it going. That’s what we did.” (Credit: Supersport post-match presentation).
- The “Fleetwood Mac” tandem of Tommy Fleetwood and Rory McIlroy routed Collin Morikawa and Harris English 5&4.
- Matt Fitzpatrick and Ludvig Åberg never trailed in their match, beating top-ranked Scheffler and Russell Henley 5&3. Åberg noted their sharp play, stating, “We hit a lot of nice shots and made it hard for them.” (Credit: Supersport post-match presentation).
The only US win in the morning came from the duo of Patrick Cantlay and Xander Schauffele, who beat Viktor Hovland and Robert MacIntyre 2-up.
Afternoon Four-Balls and US Star Struggles
Europe extended their lead in the afternoon four-ball session, claiming 2.5 more points. Crucially, the US cause was hurt by the struggles of key players, both of whom lost twice on the day.
- Rahm struck again, pairing with Sepp Straka for a 3&2 four-ball victory over Scheffler and J.J. Spaun. Rahm, who has not lost in Cup pairs play since 2018, humbly credited his teammates: “I can’t take all the credit. I’ve had great partners. You can’t do this alone.” (Credit: Supersport post-match presentation).
- Fleetwood secured his second point alongside Justin Rose, beating Ben Griffin and DeChambeau 1-up.
- The US did find success through Justin Thomas and Cam Young, who delivered a dominant 6&5 routing of Åberg and Rasmus Højgaard.
US Captain Keegan Bradley remained defiant despite the gap, focusing on better fortunes for his players on Saturday. “Europe made a lot of putts. Happy with the way we’re playing. Hopefully it’ll turn and our putts will go in tomorrow. This is first quarter. We’ve still got three quarters to go. I’ve got a lot of faith in my boys,” he stated (Credit: Supersport post-match presentation).
Europe, holders of the trophy, needs only 14 of the total 28 points to retain the Cup, while the US requires 14.5 points to win it back.
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