Europe secure thrilling 44th Ryder Cup victory over USA as Tommy Fleetwood clinches decisive point
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Updated 01/10/2023 at 18:16 GMT
In a gripping Ryder Cup showdown in Rome, Team Europe emerged triumphant with a 16½-11½ victory against Team USA. The pivotal moment arrived when Tommy Fleetwood secured the decisive point by defeating Rickie Fowler 3&1. Rory McIlroy, Viktor Hovland and Jon Rahm were among the standout performers for Europe, despite Team USA showcasing resilience with victories in their attempted comeback.
Team Europe Captain Luke Donald lifts the trophy after winning the 2023 Ryder Cup on October 01, 2023 in Rome, Italy.
Image credit: Getty Images
Europe won the 44th Ryder Cup after Luke Donald’s team halted a United States comeback in a 16½-11½ victory on Sunday in Rome.
The pivotal moment came when Tommy Fleetwood secured the decisive point, triumphing over Rickie Fowler 3&1.
Europe began the day needing just four wins out of the 12 singles matches. Rory McIlroy and Viktor Hovland contributed crucial points by emerging victorious in their respective matches against Sam Burns and Collin Morikawa. Additionally, Jon Rahm battled fiercely against World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, resulting in a tied match that contributed half a point to Europe's tally.
However, as the singles matches unfolded, tension rose as the US showcased resilience and managed to secure several victories, courtesy of Brooks Koepka, Max Homa and Xander Schauffele.
It was Fleetwood's performance that sealed the deal for Europe, as he clinched the 16th hole to go two up with two to play against Fowler, ensuring the half-point required to reach 14½.
"I really didn't want it to come down to one of us at the back," Fleetwood said after the victory.
"I'm just so happy to play a part in it and so proud to be part of this team. We've done what we came here to do. I couldn't wish for a better bunch of people to do this with. It has been so amazing. It's the coolest experience."
Captain Luke Donald added: "This is why the Ryder Cup is so special to me and the guys.
"We play for each other, we will share those memories forever. I gave them a good culture and prepared, but then it was staying out of the way. They had to do it and play well. These guys will be around for a long time, and we will put up a great fight in two years' time.
"The Americans are so strong in singles but we were 12 strong. Everyone contributed. I just love these guys - you need your superstars to show up and they did.
"I've put everything into it and I'm just so glad they were able to win."
The loss means that the US team's quest to win the Ryder Cup on European soil continues on after three decades.
"If I have any reflection right now, it's that you take your hat off, tip your cap - whatever the cliché is - to Team Europe and Luke," said USA captain Zach Johnson.
"They played great and they earned it. Very impressive. We got outplayed, but we showed grit, we showed heart, and then it got interesting there.
"We had some momentum coming into the day and even some during the day. I'm proud of my guys - they've got so much heart and grit. It's not them. It's on me. I maybe made some poor decisions... I'll reflect at some point. But it's not about those 12 guys. I'm grateful for each and every one of them."
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