Europe Aims for Ryder Cup Retention at Bethpage

FARMINGDALE, N.Y. — Europe needs just 2 points out of 12 available on Sunday to retain the Ryder Cup against the United States at Bethpage Black. As singles matches began on September 28, 2025, the European team leads with a score of 11.5 over the U.S. team’s 4.5.

Team Europe, captained by Luke Donald, achieved an impressive advantage by sweeping all four sessions in the first two days. This is the largest lead ever held by a visiting team heading into Sunday singles.

“We’re just focusing on today,” Donald said. “We’ve played well so far, but there’s still a lot of golf to be played.”

Notably, players like Tommy Fleetwood and Rory McIlroy remain at the forefront, with Fleetwood continuing his undefeated streak at 4-0-0, almost matching the entire American team who has a collective 4.5 points.

In singles matches, notably close contests have been marked by intense competition and dramatic swings in momentum. Earlier in the day, Justin Thomas and Bryson DeChambeau launched strong efforts but continue to struggle, particularly in high-pressure situations.

Ed Mackey, a live editor at the event, commented on the performance of the two teams: “The Americans need a historic comeback, requiring them to win 10 of their 12 singles matches to clinch the Cup. It’s been challenging, especially with the European team’s cohesive play.”

The day’s first matches commenced with high anticipation as the acoustics of Bethpage resonated with cheers and jeers, continuing the rivalry’s heated atmosphere.

Keegan Bradley, the U.S. captain, noted the urgent need for his players to sink more putts and leverage the home course advantage. “We still have possibilities, but the guys have to find their form quickly,” he said.

For Europe, their historical performance indicates strong potential for a decisive victory. If they score 8.5 points in singles, they will break the record for the most points in a Ryder Cup.

As the day progresses, all eyes remain on the remaining matches, a testament to the ongoing struggle for the home team to claw back their lead.