Description

Farmingdale, New York — September 29, 2025. The 45th Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black concluded with Team Europe defeating the United States 15–13, earning back-to-back victories and their first win on American soil since 2012. The contest had everything: early dominance by Europe, a furious American fightback, and late heroics under enormous pressure.

Critical Moments

Europe’s edge was built on their foursomes and fourballs play across the opening two days, but Sunday’s singles created drama. The decisive sequence came late:

• Shane Lowry holed a clutch birdie putt at the 18th against Russell Henley, ensuring Europe would at least retain the trophy.

• Minutes later, Tyrrelnl Hatto halved his match with Collin Morikawa, sealing the outright victory.

The final score settled at 15–13, with the U.S. salvaging pride by winning the majority of singles.

Key Players

• Tyrrell Hatton: His half-point secured Europe’s outright win.
• Shane Lowry: His birdie putt was the defining shot of the week.
• Viktor Hovland: Forced to withdraw from singles with a neck injury, his match was ruled a tie under the “envelope rule,” adding half a point to Europe’s total.
• Luke Donald: Became only the second European captain, after Tony Jacklin, to win back-to-back Ryder Cups.
• Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy: Battled to the wire, with Scheffler winning 1UP in a grinding duel.
• Xander Schauffele: Produced one of the strongest U.S. singles wins, beating Jon Rahm decisively.

The Envelope Rule Controversy

Hovland’s withdrawal triggered the rarely used “envelope rule,” under which a match involving an unavailable player is declared a tie. Europe benefited, taking a crucial half-point.

• Keegan Bradley, the U.S. captain, called for the rule to be scrapped before the next Ryder Cup, arguing it unfairly advantages one side.

• Luke Donald defended the system, noting it has existed since the 1970s and been used by both teams in past Cups.

The incident ensures the rule will remain a flashpoint heading into Adare Manor 2027.

Conditions and Atmosphere

Weather was warm, dry, and breezy—ideal for firm setups and precision play. Unlike past Cups, no significant delays disrupted matches. Bethpage Black itself was immaculate, thanks to agronomic sponsors such as Heritage Landscape Supply Group and PBI-Gordon.

Crowds reached nearly 50,000 per day, creating a thunderous, sometimes hostile atmosphere. Logistics were tested: shuttle delays, packed parking at Jones Beach, and intensified security. On Friday, President Donald Trump’s arrival caused longer lines and heavier screening, adding to the pressure cooker feel.

By Sunday, the closing holes were surrounded by colossal galleries, turning every swing into a moment of high drama.

Partners and Presentation

The event was supported by worldwide partners including Aon, BMW, Capgemini, Citi, DP World, SAP, and Rolex, alongside local and technical sponsors. Their roles ranged from transportation and fan engagement to turf management and infrastructure, ensuring Bethpage’s flawless presentation.

Legacy and Looking Ahead

The 2025 Ryder Cup was more than a contest; it was a showcase of resilience, rivalry, and rules that continue to shape golf’s biggest team event. Europe celebrated unity, strategy, and clutch execution. The U.S. left encouraged by their singles fightback but stung by missed chances and rule disputes.

The Cup now heads across the Atlantic to Adare Manor in 2027, with pressing debates over player selection, LIV Golf representation, and Ryder Cup rules certain to dominate the buildup.

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