At the 2025 Ryder Cup, by the afternoon fourballs, Europe further extended their lead, with Rahm and debutant Aberg delivering notable contributions.Replicating their morning dominance, Europe again claimed three of the four matches, heading into the afternoon with an 8½–3½ advantage over the U.S., applying immense pressure on the Americans to mount a comeback.
For the European team, the moment presents a historic chance to leave a lasting mark on the Ryder Cup history. Having already claimed two of the first three sessions, their strategic adjustments and strong execution have paid off. So, Golf analyst Justin Roy underscored the significance of Europe’s position on X: “In the Europe-vs-USA era (since 1979), no road side has ever won the first 3 sessions of a Ryder Cup. Europe can do that this morning. Last time it happened: 1961 by the Americans at Royal Lytham.”
The last time a visiting team achieved such a start was back in 1961, when England hosted the Ryder Cup and the European team did not yet exist—only Great Britain competed. That 14th edition, held at the Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club, saw the United States team, under captain Jerry Barber, dominate. Arnold Palmer, making his Ryder Cup debut at age 32, contributed two wins in pairs and a half in singles. The Americans ultimately claimed victory with a final score of 14½ to 9½ points.
European captain Luke Donald talks about playing Ryder Cup before a New York audience
European captain Luke Donald views the 2025 Ryder Cup as a prime opportunity to fine-tune last year’s strategy and energize fans in the quest to retain the trophy. Unlike last year, when the European team competed on familiar courses in Italy, this edition presents a tougher mental challenge—the American crowd at Bethpage Black thrives on being loud, passionate, and demanding, testing the visiting team’s focus and composure.
Despite the potentially hostile atmosphere, the European squad stands ready to face any New York crowd in defense of their title. Former President Donald Trump’s presence has further amplified patriotic energy among American supporters. Yet Donald avoids stereotyping the New York fans, instead preparing his team strategically and mentally. A guided tour of the facilities helped him equip his players for the intensity that awaits.
“New York is a place where if you show up with talent and a fighting spirit, the city will get behind you, although maybe not if you are wearing European blue this week,” Donald admitted. “We know what awaits us, Bethpage isn’t exactly shy. This is New York sports country—passionate, loyal and ferociously loud and rightly so. The fans respect effort over ego. You show up for those that grind, those that fight and those who rise to the big occasions. You make us earn every cheer.”
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With the Ryder Cup underway, the question remains: Can Luke Donald and his European team, by defending their title, win over the hearts of the notoriously passionate New York crowd? Share your thoughts below.