Europe took an early three-point lead over the United States on the opening day of the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black in New York. For the first time in 21 years, the visitors led at the end of day one on American soil, securing victories in both sessions, including five of the first six matches.
US captain Keegan Bradley remained optimistic despite Europe’s strong start. “We have only played 28% of the points,” he said. “This is the first quarter. We’ve still got three quarters to go. I’ve got a lot of faith in my boys.” The day’s final match between Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry against Patrick Cantlay and Sam Burns delivered thrilling action. Europe had already won the foursome session 3-1, with two more points secured, leaving only Cameron Young and Justin Thomas picking up points for the USA.
Lowry, McIlroy, and Burns had putts on the final holes that could have swung the score between 5-3 and 6-2. Lowry missed his, Burns went wide, and McIlroy’s 12-foot attempt slid past the hole. The day ended with Europe leading 5½ to 2½. McIlroy acknowledged the disappointment of missed chances but said the team would have welcomed this strong start before play began. Europe is expected to remain strong favorites heading into Saturday’s morning foursomes.
Ryder Cup captain Luke Donald praised his team. “We all knew how important it was to get off to a good start,” he said. “To win again this afternoon was another tick in a box. I am very happy with where we are.”
Scottie Scheffler struggled on day one, losing his match with JJ Spaun against Jon Rahm and Sepp Straka. Meanwhile, Tommy Fleetwood and Justin Rose came from behind to defeat Ben Griffin and Bryson DeChambeau, with Fleetwood’s closing putting proving decisive.
McIlroy and Lowry faced challenges, losing back-to-back holes after McIlroy’s putt circled the cup at the 13th. Both sides had opportunities afterward, but a half point each was ultimately fair. Statistical analysis favored Europe in several pairings, and captain Donald capitalized on that data. McIlroy and Fleetwood defeated Collin Morikawa and Harris English 5&4, while Ludvig Åberg and Matt Fitzpatrick beat Scheffler and Russell Henley 5&3. Rahm teamed with Tyrrell Hatton to win 4&3 against DeChambeau and Justin Thomas.
The Americans had a few successes, including Xander Schauffele and Patrick Cantlay’s 2-up win over Robert MacIntyre and Viktor Hovland, aided by a spectator disruption that affected MacIntyre’s tee shot on the 17th hole.
Europe’s opening-day performance has set a strong tone for the tournament. By winning early momentum and taking advantage of data-driven pairings, Donald’s team has positioned itself to make history at Bethpage Black. For the United States, Bradley faces tough decisions as Europe heads into Saturday with a significant advantage.
