Europe Opens with a Commanding Lead at Bethpage Black
The Ryder Cup gathered momentum on a sunny Friday at Bethpage Black outside New York, with Europe seizing the initiative in both foursomes and fourballs. By the end of the day, the European squad held a substantial 5.5–2.5 lead, setting the tone for a challenging weekend for the United States.
Friday Foursomes: Åberg and Fitzpatrick Spark the European Start
Ludvig Åberg, paired with Matt Fitzpatrick, delivered a notable performance for Europe by defeating world number one Scottie Scheffler and Russell Henley, 5&3. The win showcased Åberg’s rising stardom as part of Luke Donald’s lineup, contributing to the early advantage for the continent.
Friday Fourballs: Mixed Fortunes for the Swede
Åberg sat out the morning foursomes, returning for fourballs with mixed results. In the later fourball match, the European duo of Åberg and a partner from Europe’s ranks faced difficulties and fell to their American opponents, a reminder that the format switch can shift momentum quickly. Nevertheless, the day produced a string of European successes elsewhere, sustaining the lead and building confidence heading into Saturday.
Saturday Morning Fourballs: Europe Extends Its Edge
In the Saturday morning session, Europe extended its advantage. Rory McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood defeated Harris English and Collin Morikawa 3&2, while Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton won their encounter against Xander Schauffele and Patrick Cantlay 3&2. A third match between Robert MacIntyre and Viktor Hovland against Russell Henley and Scottie Scheffler finished 1 up for Europe after an intense finish on the 18th green, underscoring Europe’s ability to close tight contests.
Åberg’s Fourball Challenge and the Day’s Standings
Later, the scoreboard showed 8.5–3.5 in favor of Europe as the morning sessions concluded. Åberg’s performance across the day contributed to the overall momentum, reinforcing the team’s lead as the event moved toward the afternoon foursomes and fourballs.
Strategic Rest and the Road Ahead
With the evening fourball session approaching, Luke Donald decided to give Åberg a rest. The move reflects a strategic approach to preserve energy for Sunday’s singles and maximize Europe’s chances to retain the cup if the score stays in their favor. The Swedish star had already made a mark, and his absence in the next match will be felt by fans who hoped to see him build on Friday’s momentum.
Context and Stakes: History at Stake
Europe’s current form on American soil has a mixed history. The last European triumph on U.S. soil came in 2012, while Europe also won the most recent edition in Rome two years prior to the present event. As the competition moves toward Sunday’s singles, Europe holds a strong position at 8.5–3.5, and will need to maintain or improve that lead to retain the Ryder Cup if the score remains tied at the end of play on Sunday. For the United States, a comeback requires reaching 14.5 points to secure the trophy, a tall order given Europe’s day-one performance.
What to Watch for Sunday
The final day promises a dramatic finish. If the momentum carries through, Europe could seal the cup early or at least enter the singles with a comfortable buffer. Conversely, the U.S. will pursue a spirited rally to prolong the drama and prevent an early European clinch. Either way, the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black has delivered compelling golf and tight team battles that captivate fans on both sides of the Atlantic.
