Europe Shocks USA to Claim Ryder Cup Victory at Bethpage

Mon Sep 29 2025 17:11:54 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In a thrilling conclusion to the Ryder Cup, Europe manages to secure a sensational victory over the USA at Bethpage, triumphing 15-13 despite intense pressure and fierce resistance from the home team.

Europe clinched the Ryder Cup with a final score of 15-13 at Bethpage, showcasing their mettle amidst a strong fight from the USA. Ludvig Aberg starred for Europe, while Tyrrell Hatton secured the decisive point. The victory marked a historic achievement for Captain Luke Donald. Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry praised their team's resilience against challenging conditions and behaviors from the crowd.

The 'Battering at Bethpage'. The 'Larruping on Long Island'. The 'Nobbling in New York'.

The headlines were being written long before Sunday's Ryder Cup singles had even teed off such was Europe's domination over the opening two days. A record seven points they led by. 11½-4½. Just three points from 12 matches desperately needed for victory.

No side had ever come from more than four points back to win. A formality for the visitors? Not so fast. The Americans put up a fight that will be talked about for decades to come, but in the end, Europe stumbled to a 15-13 victory, with Ludvig Aberg the only player to win his match, while six home players registered wins.

Tyrrell Hatton, playing in match 10, finally got Europe to the magic 14½ points mark as they became the fifth European side to win an away match - the first since 2012.

It was fitting that the Englishman should secure the winning point given he was one of two undefeated players this week. The other was Shane Lowry, who holed the putt to take Europe to 14 points and ensure they would at least retain the trophy.

World number two Rory McIlroy, who was the main target of a hostile New York crowd over the three days, said the victory shut up the home crowd after their unacceptable and abusive behaviour. McIlroy's wife, Erica, was hit by a drink thrown by an American fan on Saturday, and both McIlroy and Lowry received cruel barbs during the tournament.

Lowry and McIlroy both praised Erica's response, with McIlroy saying his wife handled everything this week with class and poise and dignity. Golf should be held to a higher standard than what was seen out there this week, he added.

The triumph cements Luke Donald's status as a bona fide Ryder Cup legend. After masterminding the 'Romp in Rome' in 2023, the Englishman has become the second captain, after Tony Jacklin, to lead the side to home and away victories. He is the only man to win home and away as a player as well.

The US needed 10 points to regain the trophy. No side had ever won more than 8½ from the 12 singles matches. Their task was made tougher when Europe announced Viktor Hovland would be unable to play due to a neck injury. But the drama began as matches took shape on the course at Bethpage.

Even the notoriously feisty New York fans were there in hope, but Europe quickly established control. The script followed previous days as Europe were in complete control. Yet the Americans began to stage a comeback, but in the end, Europe secured the victory amid emotional celebrations.

As European players embraced in triumph, it became clear that golf had provided another chapter in its storied legacy of competition and camaraderie.