Team Europe Off to Worst Ryder Cup Start in 46 Years

Published 09/25/2021, 10:20 AM EDT

The Americans have established a challenging lead over the Europeans on the first day of the Ryder Cup. In fact, Steve Stricker’s squad had the best start in over 45 years.

Whistling Straits witnessed a lot of action, drama, and emotions on Friday. Some played their best golf while luck just did not favor the others. The Europeans, however, are sure to be disappointed with the large deficit that has established itself at the conclusion of the first day.

The Americans establish a mighty 6-2 lead on the opening day

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The Americans have not witnessed such a high-scoring day since the 1975 Ryder Cup at Laurel Valley Golf Club. At that edition, they extended this massive lead to a mind-blowing total of 21-11, which secured them the cup. Friday also marked the first time that Team U.S. won the first two sessions after 2010.

For the first time in his rich career spanning six appearances, Rory McIlroy suffered two defeats on the same day. Their only win came from Jon Rahm and Sergio Garcia, who outperformed the super duo of Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas. Garcia produced a record six birdies that took his point tally 26.5.

Another point for @RyderCupUSA ✔️#RyderCup pic.twitter.com/4vqdGbvc1Y
— Ryder Cup (@rydercup) September 24, 2021

Padraig Harrington revealed his thoughts, “No doubt it was a tough day. Clearly not what you wanted, 6-2. It isn’t a good start, but there’s still a lot to play for. My team played well today. You know, just a few times, the momentum, the odd putt didn’t go in… And coming out tomorrow, obviously, we need a big day.”

On the contrary, the American golfers had an excellent day. Dustin Johnson, world number 2, produced two massive wins with Xander Schauffele and Collin Morikawa. Bryson DeChambeau hit a monstrous 417-yard drive for an eagle on a par 5.

Ryder Cup: Full results from Day 1

Foursomes:

Jon Rahm/Sergio Garcia beat Justin Thomas/Jordan Spieth 3-1

Dustin Johnson/Collin Morikawa beat Paul Casey/Viktor Hovland 3-2

Brooks Koepka/Daniel Berger beat Lee Westwood/Matt Fitzpatrick 2-1

Patrick Cantlay/Xander Schauffele beat Rory McIlroy/Ian Poulter 5-3

Moments defined by brilliance 👏
The best On The Charge moments from Friday.@bp_america | #RyderCup pic.twitter.com/m6yCrAU4Jk
— Ryder Cup (@rydercup) September 25, 2021

Fourballs:

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Dustin Johnson/Xander Schauffele beatt Paul Casey/Bernd Wiesberger 2&1

Bryson DeChambeau/Scottie Scheffler halved with Jon Rahm/Tyrrell Hatton

Tony Finau/Harris English beat Rory McIlroy/Shane Lowry 5&3

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Justin Thomas/Patrick Cantlay halved with Tommy Fleetwood/Viktor Hovland

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Ishita Bhargava is a golf content writer at Essentially Sports. Currently pursuing her undergraduate degree from the Shri Ram College of Commerce, she has a keen interest in sports and fitness. When not playing or watching a sports event, Ishita can be seen spending time with her pets or binge-watching.

Team Europe Off to Worst Ryder Cup Start in 46 Years

The Americans establish a mighty 6-2 lead on the opening day

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Ryder Cup: Full results from Day 1