The legendary Bethpage Black, a course notorious for its demanding nature and a sign at the first tee famously declaring “WARNING: The Black Course is an extremely difficult course which we recommend only for highly skilled golfers,” lived up to its reputation and then some on the opening day of the Ryder Cup 2025. What unfolded on Friday was a compelling narrative of European precision and American resilience, albeit with a clear early victor. As the dust settled over Farmingdale, New York, Team Europe had established a commanding 3-point lead, finishing Day 1 with a formidable 5.5 to 2.5 advantage.
Morning Foursomes: A European Masterclass
The morning`s foursomes, often a barometer for a team`s cohesion and strategic depth, saw Team Europe deliver a performance that can only be described as clinical. Of the four matches, Europe clinched three, setting an ominous tone for the American contingent.
The highly anticipated pairing of Bryson DeChambeau and Justin Thomas for Team USA, intended by captain Keegan Bradley to ignite an early spark, instead found themselves stifled. Their initial birdie on the first hole, a fleeting moment of American optimism, proved to be an anomaly. Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton of Europe, a duo exuding calm ferocity, swiftly took control, securing a decisive 4&3 victory. One couldn`t help but observe Thomas`s putter, or rather, its conspicuous absence from the scoring action after the first hole, leading some to muse about potential changes for the afternoon lineup.
The European momentum continued unabated. Ludvig Åberg and Matt Fitzpatrick demonstrated a formidable partnership, mirroring the strong showing of Rory McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood, both pairs securing comfortable wins. For Scottie Scheffler, the World No. 1, the foursomes format once again proved to be a challenging crucible. Paired with Russell Henley, they found themselves four holes down against Åberg and Fitzpatrick through just ten holes – a stark reminder of his record-setting 9&7 loss in Rome. It seems the “alternate shot” dynamic remains a puzzle Scheffler is yet to solve, much to the delight of European strategists who, perhaps, quietly celebrated their captain Luke Donald`s decision to split the successful Åberg/Hovland pairing from 2023. This reshuffle, initially questioned, now appears a stroke of tactical genius.
Amidst the European onslaught, Xander Schauffele and Patrick Cantlay provided a solitary beacon of hope for Team USA. Their gritty 2 up victory was crucial, preventing a complete European whitewash and ensuring the Americans had at least a point to their name heading into the afternoon.
Afternoon Four-Ball: Europe Holds Its Ground
The afternoon four-ball matches brought a different energy, with players each playing their own ball. Team USA aimed for a turnaround, and while they showed flashes of brilliance, Team Europe admirably held their ground, preventing a significant American comeback. The session saw Europe add two more wins, USA one, and a critical match ending in a tie, preserving Europe`s substantial lead.
Individual heroics punctuated the afternoon. Justin Rose, with a penchant for closing out dramatic holes, delivered once again on the 18th, much to the despair of the American faithful. Jon Rahm, a consistent force throughout the day, sank a crucial putt to maintain Europe`s advantage, showcasing why he is one of the pillars of the European side.
Team USA had its moments too. Patrick Cantlay`s important putt sparked cheers, as did Cameron Young`s visible excitement, injecting much-needed passion into the American camp. J.J. Spaun, making his Ryder Cup debut, marked the occasion with a birdie on his very first hole, a personal highlight even amidst the team`s struggles. Bryson DeChambeau, paired with Ben Griffin, also contributed to the American effort, staying competitive in their match.
However, Rory McIlroy`s “huge putt” was a timely reminder of Europe`s star power, and Shane Lowry`s clutch performance underscored their depth. Even Rasmus Højgaard managed to put a smile on faces, humorously imitating his twin brother`s Ryder Cup debut – a light moment in an otherwise intensely competitive day.
The Road Ahead: An Uphill Battle for Team USA
As the first day concluded, the scoreboard painted a clear picture: Team Europe in control, leading 5.5 to 2.5. The dominant morning performance laid the foundation, and their resilience in the afternoon ensured the lead was not eroded. The Bethpage Black course, with its unforgiving layout, seems to be favoring those who exhibit consistent composure and strategic execution.
For Team USA, the challenge is immense. They must find answers, both individually and collectively, to Europe`s relentless form. The atmosphere, a palpable blend of anticipation and tension, will only intensify. The Ryder Cup 2025 has begun with a bang, and while Europe currently holds the upper hand, the spirit of this legendary competition promises many more twists and turns over the weekend. The question now looms large: can Team USA stage a dramatic comeback, or will Europe continue their march towards glory? Only time, and many more precisely struck golf balls, will tell.
Benedict Kingsley