In brief
The Ryder Cup concluded in dramatic fashion as Europe overcame a substantial lead by the US team, securing a 15-13 victory, led by outstanding performances from Tyrrell Hatton and Ludvig Aberg. Following the emotional event, Rory McIlroy criticized the hostile crowd behavior while celebrating Europe’s first away victory in over a decade.
The 'Battering at Bethpage'. The 'Larruping on Long Island'. The 'Nobbling in New York'.
The headlines were being written long before Sunday's Ryder Cup singles had even teed off such was Europe's domination over the opening two days. A record seven points they led by. 11½-4½. Just three points from 12 matches needed for victory.
No side had ever come from more than four points back to win. A formality for the visitors?
Not so fast. The Americans put up a fight that will be talked about for decades to come, but in the end Europe stumbled to a 15-13 victory, with Ludvig Aberg the only player to win his match, while six home players registered wins.
Tyrrell Hatton, playing in match 10, finally got Europe to the magic 14½ points mark as they became the fifth European side to win an away match - and the first since 2012.
It was fitting that the Englishman should secure the winning point given he was one of two undefeated players this week. The other was Shane Lowry, who holed the putt to take Europe to 14 points and ensure they would at least retain the trophy.
World number two Rory McIlroy, who was the main target of a hostile New York crowd over the three days, said the victory shut up the home crowd after their unacceptable and abusive behaviour.
McIlroy's wife, Erica, was hit by a drink thrown by an American fan on Saturday, and both McIlroy and Lowry received cruel barbs during the tournament.
Lowry and McIlroy both praised Erica's response, with McIlroy saying his wife handled everything this week with class and poise and dignity.
Golf should be held to a higher standard than what was seen out there this week, he added.
The triumph cements Luke Donald's status as a bona fide Ryder Cup legend. After masterminding the 'Romp in Rome' in 2023, the Englishman - who also won all four Ryder Cups he played in - has become the second captain, after Tony Jacklin in 1985 and 1987, to lead the side to home and away victories.
As the US needed 10 points to regain the trophy, further drama unfolded with match play proving intense. Despite a strong start from the US team, Europe maintained their composure and eventually secured the necessary points needed to clinch the victory.
The final three matches, under immense pressure, ended on an exhilarating note with Europe securing points in astonishing fashion, culminating in a 15-13 victory. The Ryder Cup journey will be remembered not just for the prowess shown on the greens, but also the extraordinary emotional undertones that accompanied it.
