Europe dominate Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black to move within touching distance of retaining title

Europe continued their relentless charge at the Ryder Cup on Saturday, extending their commanding lead to 11½–4½ after another dominant display at Bethpage Black. Luke Donald’s side claimed both sessions by 3-1 margins, winning the morning foursomes and afternoon fourballs to move within just 2½ points of retaining the trophy.

The European team became only the second under the 28-point system to sweep the first four sessions, matching the feat last achieved in 2006, and are the first to lead by more than 11 points heading into singles. "I didn't really imagine this," Donald admitted. "The job is never done till it's done. So I'm not going to sit here and be complacent."

For the United States, who entered the week determined to avenge their 2023 defeat in Rome, the situation is now desperate. Keegan Bradley’s side need 10 of the 12 available points on Sunday to overturn the deficit. "I'm seeing what looks like to be historical putting. They're making everything," Bradley said. "They're a tough team to beat."

Bryson DeChambeau, playing alongside Cameron Young, offered the hosts a glimmer of hope when he secured the first point of the day. But from there, Europe took control. Tommy Fleetwood and Justin Rose defeated DeChambeau and world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler 3&2, with tensions rising after a heated exchange involving Rose and DeChambeau’s caddie. The loss marked a shocking milestone for Scheffler, who became the first American to lose in each of the opening four sessions of a Ryder Cup despite enjoying a stellar season with six victories, including two majors.

Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry thrived in the fiery atmosphere, producing five consecutive birdies to edge Justin Thomas and Young 2UP. Xander Schauffele and rookie J.J. Spaun gave the Americans brief relief by narrowly beating Jon Rahm and Sepp Straka, while Tyrrell Hatton, stepping in for the injured Viktor Hovland, sealed the day with a decisive birdie on 18 alongside Matt Fitzpatrick to edge Sam Burns and Patrick Cantlay.

The holders had already spoiled the mood on Friday, building a 5½–2½ lead as U.S. President Donald Trump watched on. Now, with history on their side, Europe stand poised for another famous triumph. Bradley, however, sought inspiration from an iconic comeback. "I was at that Super Bowl. I watched it. What a cool thing to have witnessed live in person," he said, referencing the New England Patriots’ 28-3 turnaround against the Atlanta Falcons in 2017.

SportsLigue