Ryder Cup victory heralds promising era in US golf
New generation of golfers seal record 19-9 win over Europe
The US, led by a new generation of golfers, reclaimed the Ryder Cup last night, thrashing holders Europe 19-9 to herald what could be an era of domination by the Americans at the biennial competition.
With half the 12-man U.S. team comprised of rookies there were concerns as to whether the newcomers would be able to survive in the gladiatorial arena that is the Ryder Cup against a European squad packed with cut-throat veterans.
Youth trumps experience
But youthful energy trumped experience as the European old guard failed to deliver against the American young guns.
“This is a new era for USA golf,” declared US captain Steve Stricker. “They are young. They come with a lot of passion, a lot of energy, a lot of game. They are just so good.”
While Europe had four players in their 40s the US had none, with all but three members in their 20s. And the Americans were not just young but talented, the debutantes making a major contribution on the scoreboard going 14-43. Fittingly it was the youngest member of the squad, 24-yearold Collin Morikawa securing the winning point.
Having romped to a commanding 11-5 advantage after the foursome and fourball sessions, the Americans entered the singles needing just 3-1/2 points to reach the target required to hoist the little gold trophy.
Morikawa birdied the 17th to go one up in his match with Viktor Hovland, guaranteeing the US a deciding half-point. The two-time major winner would make it official a few minutes later with a par on 18 to end the match in a tie, sending a thundering chant of ‘USA, USA’ rumbling across Whistling Straits.