The 2025 Ryder Cup commenced with a palpable intensity at the infamous Bethpage Black Course in Farmingdale, New York. Expectations were high, especially for Team USA, eager to reclaim the coveted trophy on home soil. Yet, as the first round concluded, it was Team Europe that delivered a commanding performance, establishing a significant lead and setting a challenging tone for the remainder of the competition.
Morning Foursomes: A European Masterclass
The morning foursomes saw Europe dominate, securing three out of four available points. The atmosphere, initially electric with anticipation for a strong American start, shifted as European pairs consistently delivered under pressure. The U.S. roster, a formidable collection of talent including Scottie Scheffler, Xander Schauffele, and Bryson DeChambeau, found themselves facing an uphill battle almost immediately.
The Spark That Fizzled: DeChambeau and Thomas
Team USA captain Keegan Bradley`s strategic decision to send out Bryson DeChambeau and Justin Thomas first was intended to ignite an early spark. DeChambeau, a crowd favorite known for his prodigious drives, delivered an initial birdie on the first hole, momentarily lifting the American spirits. However, the momentum quickly dissipated. The pair struggled to find their rhythm thereafter, succumbing to a decisive 4&3 defeat against Europe`s formidable duo, Jon Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton. Thomas`s putting woes were particularly evident, a performance that, as some observers noted with a touch of irony, suggested a player might be better off “sitting in the afternoon four-ball matches” rather than attempting to putt his way out of trouble.
Scheffler`s Continued Foursomes Frustrations
World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, paired with Russell Henley, faced a déjà vu moment from the 2023 Ryder Cup. Despite his individual prowess, Scheffler`s struggles in the alternate-shot format continued. His pairing found themselves 4 up down through 10 holes against Ludvig Åberg and Matt Fitzpatrick, ultimately contributing to Europe`s growing lead. It appears the “vibe,” as ESPN`s Mark Schlabach aptly put it, was decidedly against the Americans, with Europe sinking ten birdies to the USA`s three across the first 13 holes of the morning session.
A Lone American Stand: Schauffele and Cantlay
Amidst the European onslaught, Xander Schauffele and Patrick Cantlay provided a crucial lifeline for Team USA. Their determined play culminated in a hard-fought 2 up victory in the final foursomes match of the morning. This single point was vital, preventing a complete whitewash and offering a glimmer of hope as the teams broke for the afternoon.
Afternoon Four-ball Matches: A Chance for Redemption
With the scoreboard reading 3-1 in favor of Europe after the morning session, the afternoon four-ball matches became critical for Team USA. The format, where each player plays their own ball and the better score counts, often lends itself to more aggressive play and potential comebacks. Captain Bradley shuffled his pairings, hoping to find combinations that could reignite the American challenge.
The announced afternoon pairings showcased the strategic chess match unfolding:
- Scottie Scheffler-J.J. Spaun vs. Jon Rahm-Sepp Straka
- Bryson DeChambeau-Ben Griffin vs. Tommy Fleetwood-Justin Rose
- Cameron Young-Justin Thomas vs. Ludvig Åberg- Rasmus Højgaard
- Sam Burns-Patrick Cantlay vs. Rory McIlroy-Shane Lowry
J.J. Spaun, making his Ryder Cup debut, delivered an early highlight with a birdie on his first career Ryder Cup hole, a moment of individual brilliance that could serve as inspiration. Rasmus Højgaard, mirroring his twin`s debut, also provided an encouraging performance for the European side. Rory McIlroy continued his “hot” streak, consistently performing at a high level and embodying Europe`s confidence.
Bethpage Black: A Witness to History
The Bethpage Black Course, renowned for its challenging layout and “Warning: The Black Course Is An Extremely Difficult Course Which We Recommend Only Highly Skilled Golfers Play Regularly” sign, lived up to its reputation. The course itself, with its demanding fairways and punishing roughs, became an additional character in the unfolding drama. The crowds, described as “buzzing,” added an unparalleled energy, their cheers and groans echoing through the iconic Long Island landscape.
Looking Ahead: The Battle Continues
Day one of the Ryder Cup 2025 concluded with Team Europe firmly in the driver`s seat. Their clinical performance in the morning foursomes served as a stark reminder of the global talent assembled. For Team USA, the afternoon four-ball matches presented an immediate opportunity to claw back points and inject much-needed momentum into their campaign. The narrative of this Ryder Cup is still in its early chapters, but the opening day at Bethpage Black has already laid the groundwork for what promises to be an intensely dramatic and unforgettable contest.
