The USA secured a commanding 17-9 win over Great Britain and Ireland in the Walker Cup at Cypress Point, California, extending their decade-long dominance in the event. The visitors, who last lifted the trophy in 2015 and have not triumphed on American soil since 2001, fell away badly in the closing stages.
After trailing 6.5–5.5 following the opening day, GB&I stayed in contention by halving the morning foursomes to remain just a point adrift heading into the decisive singles. But the afternoon proved one-sided, as the Americans surged to victory with a series of convincing performances.
Connor Graham earned a battling half point against U.S. Amateur champion Mason Howell in a tense clash of 18-year-olds, but the momentum was firmly with the hosts. Preston Stout sealed the outcome with a 2&1 win over Luke Poulter, son of Ryder Cup stalwart Ian Poulter, securing the USA’s 14th point and the Cup.
There was at least one highlight for GB&I as Gavin Tiernan edged Michael La Sasso 2&1 to record the visitors’ only singles win of the afternoon. However, with the fog rolling in along the Pacific coast, the result was already beyond doubt.
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