As the sun sets over Bethpage Black, the tension of the 2025 Ryder Cup reaches a boiling point. With three sessions already completed and the fourth nearing its conclusion, the stage is set for an epic showdown between the U.S. and Europe. The stakes couldn’t be higher for Team USA, who find themselves grappling with a daunting deficit on home turf. The afternoon fourballs are absolutely crucial, and the pressure is palpable as fans eagerly anticipate the unfolding drama.
After a tumultuous day on the links, the European team has surged ahead, commanding a formidable lead of 11 ½ to 4 ½. The latest highlight came from the dynamic duo of Matt Fitzpatrick and Tyrrell Hatton, who executed a stunning approach on the final hole, leaving them just two feet away from victory. Their precision left American pair Sam Burns and Patrick Cantlay scrambling, unable to match the European flair. With a pair of easy birdie putts conceded, Europe claimed yet another point, solidifying their advantage.
However, not all was lost for the Americans. Xander Schauffele and J.J. Spaun finally put a point on the board after a tense match, with Spaun sinking a crucial birdie putt to secure the win. It marked a much-needed moment of relief for Team USA, considering the pressure of a long day and their previous struggles.
The European team, however, only continued to build their lead as Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry triumphed over Justin Thomas and Cameron Young. Their 3-and-2 victory showcased their resilience in the face of relentless crowd hostility, with McIlroy now boasting an impressive record of 3-0-1 in this Ryder Cup.
On the other hand, world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler’s struggles continued. Paired with Bryson DeChambeau, Scheffler fell to a crushing 3-and-2 defeat against Tommy Fleetwood and Justin Rose. This loss marked Scheffler’s fourth consecutive defeat of the week, a stunning development for a player of his caliber.
Tensions flared not only on the scorecard but also among the players, exemplified by a heated exchange between DeChambeau and Fleetwood’s caddie over a perceived intrusion on the putting line. Such moments of frustration reflect the intensity of competition, with emotions running high both on and off the course.
As the afternoon progressed, the Europeans found themselves leading in all four matches. With the U.S. trailing in three and tied in another, the need for a comeback was urgent. Sam Burns showcased his exceptional putting skills with a remarkable 40-footer for birdie, but the European team’s dominance was not to be underestimated, as they responded with impressive shots of their own.
Amidst the drama, Justin Rose captured the crowd’s attention with a confident stroke on the eighth hole, walking in what he expected to be a birdie. His audacity paid off, putting his team in the lead and energizing the European supporters.
But not all news was bright for the Europeans. Viktor Hovland, who had shone earlier, was sidelined due to a neck injury, forcing a change in the lineup. He candidly shared his struggles, emphasizing the need to prioritize his health over competition in such a high-stakes environment.
As the afternoon wore on, the American players, led by the spirited Justin Thomas, attempted to ignite the crowd’s support, hoping to rally from behind. The atmosphere was electric, with fans urging their team to mount a comeback.
The Ryder Cup format, which features a mix of foursomes, fourballs, and singles, keeps the competition fresh and unpredictable. With each match carrying the weight of national pride, the drama unfolds as fans and players alike hold their breath in anticipation of what will happen next.
As the final matches of the day reach their climax, the question looms: can Team USA rally to overcome this significant deficit, or will the Europeans continue their reign of dominance? The stage is set for an unforgettable finish at Bethpage Black.
