US punish Europe at Kohler

THE US crushed Europe 19-9 to recapture the Ryder Cup on Sunday in a performance captain Steve Stricker called the “greatest of all time”.

Collin Morikawa, the 24year-old world No.3, delivered the winning half point when he tied his match with Viktor Hovland at Whistling Straits.

He was one of eight 20somethings on a US team that featured nine players in the world’s top 11 – all gunning to regain the coveted trophy won by Europe in France three years ago.

“S p e e c h - less,” US captain Steve Stricker (pictured) said, tearing up as he talked of the commitment that resulted in dominant victory.

The Americans became the first team to notch 19 points, beating the previous record of 18.5 achieved twice by each team before.

“This is the greatest team of all time,” Stricker said, saying his youthful line-up represented “a new era for USA golf”.

“They come with a lot of passion, a lot of energy, a lot of game. They are just so good.”

World No.2 Dustin Johnson, at 37 the oldest member of the team, provided a template for his younger colleagues, his 1-up singles victory over Paul Casey giving him a perfect 5-0 record.