In an exciting start to the afternoon session of the Ryder Cup, J.J. Spaun showcased his skills by sticking his approach close from the rough on No. 1, edging the U.S. team to a 1UP lead. Spaun's drive veered well to the right, but his precision with the wedge from the light rough at Bethpage Black allowed him to set up a birdie chance just a few feet from the hole. Neither European players Jon Rahm nor Sepp Straka could match Spaun's birdie putt, contributing to an early red score on the board and energizing the crowd after a challenging morning session.
Following Europe’s 3-1 lead from the morning session, the U.S. team is looking to rebound during the afternoon four-ball (best ball) matches. The lineup has completely changed, with all four players who sat out the morning session ready to compete. The pairings for the afternoon matches include:
Match 1 (12:25 p.m.): Scottie Scheffler and J.J. Spaun vs. Jon Rahm and Sepp Straka Match 2 (12:41 p.m.): Ben Griffin and Bryson DeChambeau vs. Tommy Fleetwood and Justin Rose Match 3 (12:57 p.m.): Cameron Young and Justin Thomas vs. Ludvig Åberg and Rasmus Højgaard Match 4 (1:13 p.m.): Sam Burns and Patrick Cantlay vs. Rory McIlroy and Shane LowryOne notable decision is Justin Thomas being sent back out despite a rough morning performance. Captain Keegan Bradley chose to avoid a rookie pairing, banking on Thomas to improve alongside his partner, Patrick Cantlay, who had a strong showing earlier.
After a tense battle, Xander Schauffele and Patrick Cantlay finally put a point on the board for the United States by defeating Robert MacIntyre and Viktor Hovland 2UP. The match reached its climax on the 18th green, where the Americans started strong, leading by 3UP at one point. However, the Europeans rallied, tying the match before a critical par on the par-3 17th allowed the U.S. team to regain the lead. A wayward drive from Hovland into the fescue on No. 18 ultimately cost the Europeans a point, gifting the Americans a crucial victory.
As the matches unfolded, Schauffele and Cantlay faced a tough challenge after their initial lead slipped away. Hovland’s impressive bunker shot on No. 15 momentarily squared the match, but the U.S. duo managed to maintain their composure, with Cantlay sinking a birdie putt to secure a 1UP lead going into the final hole.
Europe’s early performances set a high standard, with Ludvig Åberg and Matt Fitzpatrick defeating Scheffler and Russell Henley decisively, winning 5&3. The European side is making a strong statement, capitalizing on their momentum from the morning session. Additionally, Rahm and Hatton showcased their prowess by defeating DeChambeau and Thomas 4&3, while McIlroy and Fleetwood overwhelmed Morikawa and English, finishing their match 5&4, leaving Europe in a commanding position.
As the afternoon progresses, the U.S. hopes to capitalize on their newfound momentum from Schauffele and Cantlay's victory. The remaining matches are crucial for the Americans to close the gap in points and regain confidence. With both teams fielding strong pairings, the competition is heating up, promising an exciting finish to the day.
The 2025 Ryder Cup, held at Bethpage Black, is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated events in golf history. The biennial competition pits the best players from the United States against those from Europe, engaging fans worldwide. The event's unique format, which includes various match play formats such as four-ball and alternate shot, adds a thrilling dynamic, making every hole a potential turning point in the competition. For viewers eager to catch all the action, comprehensive coverage is available across multiple platforms, ensuring fans don’t miss a moment of this historic event.
