On the Brink: With an 11½–4½ lead heading into Sunday singles, Luke Donald’s side require just three more points to retain the Ryder Cup
Europe Doubles Up in Morning Foursomes
Team Europe came out firing in the Saturday morning foursomes, extending their dominance with a 3-1 victory over the U.S. side.
Standout pairings included Rory McIlroy & Tommy Fleetwood, who defeated Collin Morikawa and Harris English 3 & 2 to maintain their perfect record in the format.
Meanwhile, Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton produced a highlight moment with a stunning chip-in as they prevailed over Xander Schauffele and Patrick Cantlay.
The only U.S. win in the session came via Bryson DeChambeau & Cameron Young, who edged out Matt Fitzpatrick and Ludvig Åberg — preventing a complete shutout.
Afternoon Four-Balls Favours Europe Again
The afternoon four-ball session mirrored the morning’s outcome: Europe again earned 3 of 4 points, handing the U.S. side little breathing room.
A key match saw Rory McIlroy & Shane Lowry prevail against Justin Thomas and Cameron Young, overcoming a rowdy gallery and handling pressure with poise.
Elsewhere, Matt Fitzpatrick & Tyrrell Hatton sealed a dramatic point after both players struck iron shots inside three feet on the 18th green, turning the tide away from Sam Burns and Patrick Cantlay.
The lone U.S. point came from J.J. Spaun & Xander Schauffele, who battled through and pocketed a win in one of the tighter afternoon matches.
Crowd Tensions Escalate
While Europe’s golf on-track was dominant, off-course drama captured attention. Fan hostility toward European players escalated, particularly during McIlroy and Lowry’s match, forcing extra security measures and prompting organisers to reinforce spectator etiquette.
McIlroy, visibly agitated by heckling, was heard admonishing the crowd with an expletive during one exchange.
Lowry, too, had to be restrained by his caddie as he attempted to confront a heckler.
In response, the PGA of America increased security, added police presence, and issued warnings via video boards about spectator behaviour.
Europe Enters Sunday on the Brink
By day’s end, Europe held a commanding lead of 11½ points to 4½, marking the largest margin ever after four team sessions in the modern 28-point format.
With only 12 points available in Sunday’s singles, the U.S. now faces an uphill battle.
European captain Luke Donald praised his team’s composure in the hostile conditions, saying their response to adversity has been “what makes me most proud.”
On the U.S. side, captain Keegan Bradley acknowledged Europe’s dominance and the difficult task ahead, while also defending the intensity of the home crowd.
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