Ryder Cup History Book closed on These 15 Milestones
KOHLER, Wis. – As the dust settles from another thrilling Ryder Cup, a look back reveals certain moments haven’t been replicated for years, even decades. From dramatic finishes to stunning comebacks and unique rules applications,here’s a definitive record of the last time 15 significant events unfolded at the Ryder Cup.
The Ryder Cup, steeped in tradition and rivalry, has witnessed countless memorable moments. But some achievements and occurrences remain singular, frozen in time as benchmarks of competition and drama. This compilation details those instances, offering a ancient snapshot for both seasoned fans and newcomers to the event.
1. last Hole-in-One: Scott Verplank achieved the most recent ace in Ryder Cup history during the Sunday singles in 2006 at The K Club, holing out against padraig Harrington.
2. Last Session Sweep: Team Europe delivered a dominant performance, sweeping the Friday morning Foursomes (4-0) at Marco Simone in 2023, setting an early tone in Rome.
3. Last Ryder Cup Decided on the Final Hole: The 2012 Ryder Cup at Medinah culminated in a nail-biting finish, with Martin Kaymer defeating Steve Stricker on the 18th hole, securing a 14-13 victory for Team Europe.
4.Last Ryder Cup Ending in a Tie: The 1989 Ryder Cup at The Belfry concluded in a 14-14 tie, allowing europe to retain the Cup.
5. Last Victory on Foreign Soil: Europe’s most recent win on American soil occurred at Medinah in 2012, marked by a remarkable comeback to win 14-13.
6. Last Comeback Win on Final Day: Also at Medinah in 2012, Europe trailed 10-6 entering Sunday singles but stormed back, winning the session 8-3 and ultimately the Ryder Cup.
7. Last Envelope Player: In 1993 at The Belfry, Lanny wadkins was the last designated envelope player for the U.S. Team. Sam Torrance was unable to play for Europe due to injury,activating the envelope rule.
8. Last Monday Finish: The 2010 Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor finished on a Monday due to rain delays, representing the only Monday finish in Ryder Cup history.
9. Last Playing Captain: The legendary Arnold Palmer served as the last playing captain in 1963, posting a 4-2-0 record at east Lake Golf Club.
10. Last World No. 1 to Loose a Singles Match: Jon Rahm, ranked No. 1 in the Official World Golf Ranking, lost 4&3 to Scottie Scheffler in Sunday singles at Whistling Straits in 2021.
11. Last Player to Overcome a 4-Hole Deficit in Singles: In 2002, David Toms mounted a stunning comeback, rallying from 5 down to defeat Sergio Garcia 1-up-one of the greatest comebacks in singles history.
12. Last Pairing to Overcome a 4-Hole Deficit in Foursomes: In 2008, Henrik Stenson and Oliver Wilson staged a remarkable recovery, coming back from 4 down to beat Phil Mickelson and Anthony Kim 2&1.
13. Last pairing to Overcome a 3-Hole Deficit in Four-ball: Later in the same 2008 event, Phil Mickelson and Anthony Kim returned the favor, rallying from 3 down to defeat Padraig Harrington and Graeme McDowell 2-up.
14. Last Captain’s Pick to Win 4+ matches: Thomas Pieters delivered a flawless performance as a captain’s pick for Team Europe in 2016, going 4-0-0 after being selected by Darren Clarke.
15. Last Team to Win Every Session: The United States achieved a dominant sweep at Whistling Straits in 2021, winning all five sessions en route to a commanding 19-9 victory.
