Ryder Cup 2025 live updates: USA 5-12 Europe after Hovland withdrawal
Sunday’s singles at the Ryder Cup 2025 took an unexpected turn before the first tee shot was struck, when Viktor Hovland withdrew due to a neck issue. The late change triggered the envelope rule, and while Europe began with a wave of momentum, the day’s real drama would come from a combined display of grit, nerve, and position-by-position battles across 11 matches.
Hovland withdrawal and the envelope rule in play
The decision to rule Viktor Hovland out forced the captains to use the sealed-envelope mechanism to bring in a replacement. In practice, that meant a shuffle of singles pairings and, crucially, a formal half-point awarded to both teams for the unplayed match in the overall tally. As a result, the on-course scoreboard started with Europe already on the board and the United States needing to mount a comeback from the opening tee.
Europe’s early pressure and late-day resilience
Early in the session, Europe asserted control with a mix of aggressive acceleration and smart saving of pars when required. Tommy Fleetwood produced a sharp approach and nearly drained a 30-footer for eagle on a short par-five, while Justin Thomas couldn’t convert on the birdie opportunity at the opposite end, allowing Europe to stamp their authority on the day. The wheels didn’t come off for the European side, and their advantage began to widen as the morning wore on.
Key matchups shaping the narrative
Several marquee singles matches captured the attention as the afternoon wore on. The Scheffler–McIlroy duel lived up to its billing as the world No. 1 and No. 2 traded blows in a high-stakes showdown. On other greens, DeChambeau went toe-to-toe with Fitzpatrick in a classic clash that swung on a handful of putts in and around the cup. Meanwhile, Rose, Young, and Cantlay navigated tight holes and pressure-packed finishes, adding to a day that felt like a chess match with a crowd that never stopped buzzing.
What the scoreboard means for the session and the trophy
With the current tally showing Europe ahead at 12-5 in the overall match standings after halves due to the envelope rules, Europe only need two more points from the remaining 11 matches to retain the trophy, and two-and-a-half to win it outright. The Americans faced a daunting task, but the format ensures sensational finishes are still possible on Singles Sunday, especially with several top-tier drives and clutch putts still to come.
Teams and matches to watch
Notable pairings and matchups scheduled for late play included the Young-Rose clash and the Thomas-Fleetwood encounter, both carrying fresh momentum from the morning’s exchanges. The rhythm and momentum of singles on this stage can swing quickly, turning a seemingly insurmountable deficit into a thrilling run for the trophy on the back nine.
Takeaways and what’s next
The mood around Bethpage this afternoon hinged on resilience: Europe’s early dominance, the impact of Hovland’s withdrawal, and the unpredictable nature of match play. As Sunday progresses, the focus shifts to whether the United States can stitch together a few late wins to turn the tide, or if Europe can hold steady and seal the deal. Either outcome will write a dramatic chapter in Ryder Cup history.
