Europe Seizes Commanding Lead at the 45th Ryder Cup
Rome,Italy - Europe surged to a dominant 9.5 to 2.5 lead after friday’s fourball and foursomes matches, and continued their momentum Saturday, leaving the United States facing an unprecedented uphill battle to retain the Ryder Cup. A strong afternoon session saw the european team secure three additional points, extending their advantage to a remarkable 11.5 to 4.5.
This commanding lead places immense pressure on the American squad, requiring a historic comeback on Sunday’s singles matches. Never before in Ryder Cup history has a team overcome a deficit of this magnitude,setting the stage for a potentially decisive final day at the Marco Simone Golf & Country Club. The outcome will determine which continent lifts the coveted trophy and bragging rights for the next two years.
The afternoon session began with a thrilling victory for Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry, who closed with five consecutive birdies to defeat Justin Thomas and Cameron Young 2 up on the 18th green. A video posted on X (formerly Twitter) by CANAL+ Golf showcased the electrifying finish.
Despite a strong showing for much of their match, Jon Rahm and Sepp Straka fell to Xander Schauffele and J.J. Spaun 1 up. The American duo secured crucial birdies on the 17th and 18th holes to snatch the point.
Matt Fitzpatrick and Tyrrell Hatton added another point for Europe, overcoming Sam Burns and Patrick Cantlay 1 up, sealing their win with a clutch birdie on the final hole.
Facing a 7-point deficit after the doubles play, the United States, captained by Keegan Bradley, must now achieve the seemingly impossible: win 10 out of the 12 available points in Sunday’s singles competition.
