Europe Retains Ryder Cup in Thrilling Bethpage Black Showdown
The tension was palpable. Europe needed just half a point to retain the Ryder Cup, a feat looking increasingly difficult as the final matches played out at Bethpage Black. For the first time in days, the American dominance – symbolized by their blue attire – seemed to wane.
Several key battles were unfolding together. Hatton and MacIntyre found themselves locked in intense duels against Morikawa and Burns, respectively, pushing each match to the brink. Spaun initially delivered for the US, securing a crucial point against Straka, bringing the score to 13-10.
However, a glimmer of hope emerged. Lowry, displaying remarkable composure, birdied the 15th, narrowing Henley’s lead to a single hole. This pivotal moment sent their match, along with four others, to a dramatic finish on the 18th.
Both players expertly found the green with their second shots. Henley’s initial putt missed the mark, leaving Lowry with a golden opportunity. From eight feet, a successful putt would not only win the hole but also secure the 14 points Europe needed to retain the trophy.
It dropped.The eruption of emotion from Lowry was immediate and unrestrained.Having faced some spirited exchanges with the crowd alongside McIlroy on Saturday, his celebration resonated with the intensity of the moment as disappointed American fans began to depart. The score shifted to 14-11.
But Europe wasn’t settling for a tie. They were steadfast to win outright. The final three matches all whent down to the wire, adding another layer of suspense to an already captivating contest. Griffin managed to hold off Hojgaard, extending the US lead to 14-12.
All eyes then turned to Hatton. He had leveled his match with Morikawa on the 12th, and the two were unable to break the deadlock. A match of Morikawa’s score on the 18th would seal the victory for Europe.
morikawa’s lengthy birdie attempt narrowly missed. Hatton, with two putts from 20 feet, had the Ryder cup in his hands.He expertly rolled his first putt to tap-in range. Morikawa graciously conceded, unleashing a wave of jubilant celebrations.The score became 14-12.
MacIntyre brought up the rear, securing a half-point against Burns with a clutch par on the final hole, pushing the final tally to 15-13. Remarkably, the US team matched the Ryder Cup record for points in the singles competition, but the day belonged to Europe.
This victory underscores a important achievement. McIlroy, after Europe’s win in Rome two years prior, confidently predicted a win at bethpage. He also astutely observed that “winning away is the hardest thing to achieve in golf.”
His words proved prophetic. This win wasn’t just about retaining the cup; it was a testament to Europe’s resilience, skill, and unwavering determination on American soil. It’s a moment that will be etched in Ryder Cup history for years to come.
