Europe didn’t just survive Bethpage—they conquered it, in front of the loudest gallery in golf. Rory McIlroy set the tone, Shane Lowry sealed the legend, and Luke Donald’s meticulous blueprint out-maneuvered the hosts. With the Cup retained and momentum restored, all eyes turn to Adare Manor in 2027, where an Irish crowd and a surging core of McIlroy, Lowry, Rahm and Hovland aim to make it three in a row while a wounded U.S. side regroups.
FARMINGDALE, N.Y. – As the sun set behind the grandstands at Bethpage Black on a tense Sunday evening in late September 2025, a roar of triumph in European accents echoed across Long Island. Team Europe had just achieved something many deemed almost impossible: beating the United States on American soil to retain the Ryder Cup. In the cauldron of New York crowds and one of golf’s toughest courses, the men in blue and gold emerged 15–13 victors
. Rory McIlroy stood on a bridge draped in the European flag, leading raucous “Olé, Olé, Olé!” chants amid the din
. Moments earlier, Ireland’s Shane Lowry had drained a nerve-jangling six-foot putt on the 18th green to clinch the half-point that guaranteed Europe would keep the golden trophy
. The 2025 Ryder Cup will be remembered as a passionate triumph for Europe in hostile territory – a victory that not only solidified the legacies of leaders like McIlroy and Lowry, but also set the stage for a confident march toward the next contest at Adare Manor in 2027.
This feature reflects on Europe’s stirring performance at Bethpage from a proudly European perspective, blending news and analysis with profiles of key players, strategic insight, and a bit of forward-looking speculation. It was a Ryder Cup of high drama: spectacular play and strategic masterstrokes, but also bitter crowd scenes and an American fightback that nearly snatched the cup away. Through it all, Team Europe’s unity and resilience shone through. Below, we break down how Europe pulled it off in 2025, what it means for stalwarts Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry, how captain Luke Donald’s leadership steered the ship, and what lies ahead as attention turns to Ireland 2027.
Conquering the Black Course: Europe Triumphs in Hostile Territory
“We did what people said we couldn’t,” Rory McIlroy declared through happy tears amid the celebrations, a statement that rang true on many levels. Coming into the 45th Ryder Cup, pundits openly questioned whether Europe could possibly beat a star-studded U.S. team on home soil, especially at Bethpage Black, a notoriously difficult course with an even more notorious New York crowd. The conventional wisdom was that the boisterous American gallery – supercharged by New York bravado – would be a “13th man” spurring the U.S. to victory
. For the first two days, however, Europe flipped the script. Luke Donald’s men came out of the gates fearlessly, executing a “dream golf” performance inside the ropes even as they weathered nightmare conditions outside them
. By Friday and Saturday, Europe built a commanding lead, showcasing clutch shot-making and cool team synergy that silenced the crowds.
Dominance in Team Play: Europe’s hot start was rooted in foursomes and fourballs mastery. McIlroy and his teammates played inspired golf from the get-go, sprinting to a 5½–2½ lead after Day 1 and extending it to 11½–4½ by the end of Day 2
. They dropped only two of eight points available on Saturday – a “historic two-day demolition” of Team USA on home turf
. The Americans, stunned by Europe’s early blitz, saw the scoreboard awash in European blue. Key partnerships from the 2023 victory in Rome carried their chemistry to Bethpage. For instance, veteran Justin Rose and Tommy Fleetwood rekindled their successful pairing and even took down America’s top gun Scottie Scheffler (world #1) alongside bomber Bryson DeChambeau in a fourball match
. Meanwhile, youthful stars like Ludvig Åberg – a 24-year-old rookie sensation from Sweden – justified his selection by delivering points with a fearless swagger. By Saturday evening, Europe led 12–5 (including a half-point from a forfeited match due to an injury)
, meaning they needed just two points on Sunday to clinch at least a tie and retain the Cup.
Bradley’s Setup Blunder: Interestingly, one of Europe’s secret weapons was the course itself – or rather, how the U.S. captain set it up. Bethpage Black’s identity is defined by narrow fairways and thick rough that usually punish wayward drives. Conventional Ryder Cup wisdom says a home captain should accentuate a course’s quirks to benefit his side’s style. Yet U.S. Captain Keegan Bradley made the controversial choice to widen the fairways and cut down the rough, apparently hoping to favor America’s long bombers like DeChambeau and Cameron Young
. The result was a layout that played more like a birdie-friendly putting contest than the grind Bethpage is known for – a decision that backfired spectacularly. Europe’s players took full advantage of the easier conditions on days one and two, dominating on the greens en route to a 15–13 win – the first road victory for either side since 2012
. As Bradley rued afterward, “I definitely made a mistake on the course setup…that wasn’t the right way to set the course up”
. By cutting the rough, he inadvertently removed an element that might have hindered Europe’s stars. After all, two of Europe’s top players, McIlroy and Jon Rahm, are among the longest hitters in the sport; with wide fairways, they were “free to bomb away all week” without fear
. In effect, the setup played into Europe’s hands as much as America’s. “It’s no coincidence that McIlroy and Rahm thrived…on a course perfectly constructed for them to attack,” one analyst noted of the unexpected advantage
. Bradley took heavy heat for this “cardinal sin” in strategy, admitting that any captain must take the blame when a plan fails
. The episode became a talking point on both sides of the pond – a reminder that in the Ryder Cup, preparation behind the scenes can be as crucial as performance on the course.
Europe’s Big Lead vs. America’s Big Heart: Despite Europe’s dominance in team sessions, no one in the visiting camp was naïve enough to expect the Americans would roll over. On Sunday, pride and desperation kicked in for Team USA – and soon enough, a seemingly insurmountable European lead began to evaporate in dramatic fashion. By early afternoon, the massive electronic leaderboard by the 17th green showed a sea of American red: “only one of the 12 singles matches was painted blue, the other 11 shaded in red or grey,” as one account described, meaning the U.S. was leading or tied in all but one match
. The comeback bid was officially on, and tension gripped the European side. Fans on-site and around the world suddenly had flashbacks of the “Miracle at Medinah” in 2012 – only this time it was the U.S. mounting a charge to overturn a big deficit. What had looked like a Sunday stroll toward coronation for Europe swiftly turned into a “battle royale” at Bethpage
.
Team USA indeed threw everything at Europe, showing the mettle one would expect from 12 of the world’s best golfers defending home soil. Roared on by the New York faithful, the Americans won five of the first six singles matches and halved the other
. In the blink of an eye, the scoreboard tightened. As Europe’s players peered up at those red numbers, “looks of panic were exchanged…until Captain Luke Donald stepped in” calmly to steady the ship
. The U.S. needed to win 8½ of 12 singles points to reach 13½ (enough to tie and regain the Cup as challengers), and for a while they were tracking to do exactly that. Scottie Scheffler, who had struggled mightily in the first two days and was in danger of an ignominious 0–5 record, found form just in time and took down McIlroy 1-up in the leadoff singles match – a heavyweight bout between the world Nos. 1 and 2 that lived up to its billing
. Fellow American stalwarts like Justin Thomas also rose to the occasion, defeating Europe’s previously unbeaten Tommy Fleetwood in their singles encounter
. At one point on the back nine, as a surging U.S. claimed point after point, the momentum swing was palpable. The massive crowds that had been relatively muted by Europe’s early lead were now at fever pitch, sensing a comeback for the ages. The ground metaphorically “began to crumble from underneath” the European team’s feet
.
Yet amid the chaos, Team Europe did “just enough as the sun was setting on Long Island to skirt past the desperate American side” and secure the Cup
. Needing two points on Sunday and getting exactly 3½ (including the conceded half-point from a canceled match)
, Europe ultimately survived the late American charge. It was far closer than they would have liked – indeed the Europeans won only one of 12 singles matches outright on Sunday, the fewest singles wins ever for a Ryder Cup-winning team
. That lone victory came courtesy of the rookie Åberg, who coolly dispatched Patrick Cantlay 2 & 1 to put the first full point on the board for Europe
. Four other matches were halved, including critical ties earned by Shane Lowry and Tyrrell Hatton in the late stages
. Lowry’s halve with Russell Henley in Match 8 pushed Europe to 14 points – guaranteeing that, as the defending champions, they would retain the Cup at worst
. Moments later Hatton secured a half against Collin Morikawa for Europe’s 14½th point, clinching an outright win at 15–13
. If Lowry’s putt was the emotional dagger, Hatton’s nerveless closing stretch was the final seal on victory.
Lowry’s Legendary Putt: There is no overstating the significance of Shane Lowry’s clutch putt on 18. The 36-year-old Irishman – known for his passion and steely nerves – found himself in the crucible of pressure that Sunday. What had seemed a formality (Europe needing just two points with 12 singles to play) had turned into a potential nightmare: “A stirring comeback from the USA had left Europe in serious danger of letting the Ryder Cup slip through a dozen pairs of hands,” as one report vividly put it
. Lowry was well aware of the stakes as he stood over that birdie putt on the final green: miss it, and Europe’s position would be truly precarious, with momentum fully against them; make it, and at least a tie (and thus the Cup) would be assured
. Earlier on the 18th fairway, trying to calm his racing mind, Lowry turned to his caddie and said, “I have a chance to do the coolest thing in my life here.” Then he promptly went and did it
. His 6-footer found the center of the cup, and Bethpage erupted in a mix of groans and cheers as Lowry let out a primal roar of relief
. “I still can’t believe it,” Lowry said the next morning, basking in the moment. “I can’t believe that ball went in. I stood over it going, ‘This is it.’”
The man whom American fans had mockingly called a “Teletubby” all week due to his stout frame had the last, deafening laugh
. His joyous celebration – fists pumping and head tilted to the sky – was as “euphoric and so natural” as any in Ryder Cup lore
. Lowry later admitted the hour or two leading up to that moment were “the hardest couple of hours of my whole life, honestly”
. Watching teammates “dropping like flies” as the U.S. rallied and knowing the fate of the Cup might hinge on his match was an excruciating position to be in
. But those nerves make his composure under pressure all the more heroic. As soon as his ball dropped, Lowry became a Ryder Cup legend. In his mind flashed the memory of Martin Kaymer’s similar putt at Medinah in 2012, where Europe completed their historic comeback – only now Lowry was the one delivering salvation for Europe
. “You think back to the Irish greats in the game – they have all holed putts to win the Ryder Cup, and I got my moment,” Lowry reflected, invoking the legacy of compatriots like Eamonn Darcy, Philip Walton, Paul McGinley, Graeme McDowell and Darren Clarke (all of whom clinched or secured Ryder Cups in years past)
.
The scenes after Lowry’s putt were bedlam in the best sense. European players and vice-captains mobbed Lowry on the green, and a large contingent of European fans – who had endured abuse for three days – erupted in cathartic cheers
. Lowry himself sprinted to the crowd with arms outstretched, embracing jubilant supporters in a sea of blue and yellow. In fact, so frenzied was the celebration that Lowry “ran into the crowd and briefly relinquished the trophy to a spectator before it was grabbed back,” according to one account
. Such was the unbridled joy of the moment – our Shane had done it, right under Uncle Sam’s nose. It was the definitive highlight of the 2025 Ryder Cup. And yet, as thrilling as it was, Lowry’s heroics only secured the retention; Europe still needed one more half-point to win outright, which Hatton soon provided. When that final result was confirmed, the scoreboard reading 15–13 Europe, champagne corks popped and the European team whooped it up with gusto on the 18th green. From nearly blowing a 7-point lead to sealing a clutch victory, the emotional swing was extreme, and the Europeans did not hold back in celebrating. They formed their traditional victory huddle, singing “We Are The Champions” and the ubiquitous “Olé Olé Olé” with arms around each other. Rory McIlroy led some of the chants with raw emotion – a mix of triumph and perhaps a bit of vindication after years of hearing that Europe “can’t win in the U.S.”
.
“This team will go down in history,” Captain Luke Donald proclaimed amid the revelry, and it was hard to argue
. By overturning the odds and winning on American soil for the first time since 2012, Team Europe had etched their names in the record books. They became only the fifth European (or GB&I) side ever to win a Ryder Cup in the U.S.
. And Donald himself joined the legendary Tony Jacklin as only the second European captain to win back-to-back Cups (Jacklin did so in 1985 and 1987)
. The victory also extended Europe’s modern dominance in the biennial competition: Europe has now won 11 of the last 15 Ryder Cups dating back to 1985, a remarkable run
. For the American team, meanwhile, the loss was a bitter pill – it marked two consecutive defeats (after Europe’s win in Rome ’23) and continued a dismal trend of being unable to win on the road. Not since 1993 has Team USA conquered European soil, a 30+ year drought they’ll carry into 2027. The sting of letting the Cup slip away despite a valiant comeback will surely motivate the U.S. going forward. But for now, it was Europe’s moment to savor, on their opponents’ turf no less – a triumph equal parts skill, strategy, and sheer heart.
Rory McIlroy: The Beating Heart of Team Europe
If one person embodied Europe’s fire and redemption in 2025, it was Rory McIlroy. The 36-year-old from Northern Ireland entered this Ryder Cup as the de facto leader of Team Europe – the emotional engine in the team room and a talisman on the course. Over the past few years McIlroy has grown from a supremely talented prodigy into Europe’s beating heart, openly declaring that “Ryder Cup weeks are the best weeks of our lives”
. Bethpage further cemented his legacy as one of the Ryder Cup greats.
On the Course: Redemption and Dominance. McIlroy’s personal performance over the three days was stellar, even if it ended with the disappointment of a Sunday singles loss to Scheffler. Paired with different teammates, Rory was a perfect 4–0 through the foursomes and fourball sessions (often alongside the ever-reliable Tommy Fleetwood)
. In fact, McIlroy and Fleetwood together went a combined 7-0-1 over the first two days – neither losing a match – showcasing Rory’s value as both an elite player and a flexible partner
. His point on Saturday afternoon helped Europe stretch the lead to 12–5, and he was riding high into singles. Though a drained McIlroy ultimately lost a tight one-on-one battle with the world No.1 Scheffler on Sunday, his overall contribution remained enormous. Across the 2023 and 2025 Ryder Cups, Rory compiled a 7-2-1 record in matches, an outstanding run that was instrumental in Europe’s back-to-back victories
. It’s a far cry from the previous Ryder Cup on U.S. soil (Whistling Straits 2021), where a shell-shocked McIlroy managed only one point amid Europe’s 19–9 drubbing and even broke down in tears during interviews
. That moment of vulnerability – “much is made of McIlroy’s tears in Wisconsin,” as the Guardian noted
– seemed to ignite a new resolve in Rory. He vowed never to feel that helpless again, and he responded by emerging as Europe’s top scorer in the 2023 win and a driving force again in 2025
. Bethpage was in many ways the completion of a personal redemption arc for McIlroy. Not only did he back up his bold pre-tournament prediction that Europe would win in America
, he also exorcised the demons of 2021 by winning big matches and passionately leading his squad.
Off the Course: Passion and Principle. Rory’s heroics weren’t limited to swinging a golf club. He also led by galvanizing the team’s spirit and taking a vocal stand against adversity – notably, the hostile crowd behavior. McIlroy was the prime target for heckling at Bethpage, as U.S. fans sought to rattle Europe’s star. All week, chants and taunts were often directed at Rory; on several occasions he had to back off shots due to jeers or sudden noises from the gallery
. Matters came to a head Saturday afternoon, when McIlroy’s fourball match (with Lowry vs. Thomas/Young) was marred by multiple fan interruptions. By day’s end, an enraged McIlroy even had a confrontation in the parking lot with a U.S. caddie (Joe LaCava, caddie for Patrick Cantlay) who had allegedly waved a cap provocatively near Rory on the 18th green
. Lowry famously had to restrain McIlroy during that incident, as Rory’s temper flared at what he saw as disrespect
. The normally composed McIlroy was caught on camera yelling <em>“This can’t </em>ing happen, it’s a disgrace!” as teammates pulled him away – a vivid display of how deeply he cares about the Ryder Cup and respect in the game.
After securing victory on Sunday, McIlroy did not shy away from addressing the crowd issue head-on. In press conferences, he condemned the abusive behavior some fans exhibited: “I don’t think we should ever accept that in golf. Golf should be held to a higher standard than what was seen out there this week,” Rory said firmly
. He stressed that while most fans are great, a minority crossed the line with “unacceptable…abusive behavior”, and he explicitly vowed that European supporters would not stoop to such levels when the Cup goes to Ireland in 2027
. McIlroy’s leadership here is noteworthy – he not only delivered results but stood up for the integrity of the event. His words carried weight, and even some American players, like Justin Thomas, echoed that sentiment, admitting the verbal abuse made them uncomfortable too
. Rory also had a personal brush with the crowd’s ugliness: at one point a spectator threw a beer that struck McIlroy’s wife Erica’s hat, nearly escalating into a bigger incident
. Through it all, McIlroy kept his composure as best he could and channeled the negativity into motivation. As analyst Brandel Chamblee observed, “the more profane the fans got, the more insane the quality of play from Europe got”
– and Rory exemplified that, playing superb golf under immense pressure and emotion.
Emotional Highs: Perhaps the most enduring image of Rory McIlroy at Bethpage is not of him hitting a golf shot, but of him celebrating afterward. With victory in hand, Rory climbed up onto a bridge by the 17th hole, European flag draped over his shoulders like a cape, and conducted the chorus of European fans in song
. He waved his arms and led the “Olé, Olé, Olé” cheer, his face a picture of joy and defiance. It was a cathartic release from the strain of the week. Here was McIlroy – who had been vilified by parts of the crowd – now exultant, giving it back in the most jubilant way possible. At one cheeky moment, he even used the European flag to cover over Bryson DeChambeau’s name on a bridge sign, a lighthearted troll that sent European fans into laughter
. Such antics showed Rory’s fire but in a way that stayed just on the right side of sportsmanship. And as he celebrated, he remembered to heap praise on his teammates and captain. “I have absolute confidence in this team, absolute confidence in our leader Luke Donald,” McIlroy said, emphasizing the collective effort
. He also reflected on how two years prior, after the win in Rome, he had “boldly predicted” Europe would also win in New York – “It’s nice to be right…We set in motion to do something that hadn’t been done in over a decade,” he noted with a grin
. Indeed, that prediction had raised eyebrows in 2023, but McIlroy backed up his talk with inspired play and leadership.
Legacy and Looking Forward: With this victory, Rory McIlroy further burnished what is already a Hall-of-Fame career. In stroke play golf, 2025 was a banner year for Rory – he finally won the Masters in April, completing the career Grand Slam of all four majors
. But even that monumental achievement seemed to rank alongside (if not slightly behind) the Ryder Cup in Rory’s heart. As Captain Donald revealed, “Rory has made no qualms about how important the Ryder Cup is to him… maybe not quite on the same level as winning the Grand Slam and the Masters, but it’s pretty effing close”
. McIlroy’s passion for the team event has clearly become a driving force. He has now been part of seven Ryder Cup teams, winning five of them. He’s Europe’s emotional leader and arguably the team’s on-course MVP over the last two editions. In Donald’s words, “to have someone of Rory’s caliber fighting so hard, that’s inspiring for the team… obviously you can’t do it alone, but it’s very helpful when someone like Rory is contributing like he does.”
McIlroy, for his part, has found renewed joy and camaraderie in these team moments. “Those weeks we spend together are the ones we remember the most,” he said, comparing them to the lonelier grind of individual tour life
. At 36, Rory likely has at least a couple more Ryder Cups in him as a player. He will be central to Europe’s plans for 2027, eager to lift the Cup on home soil again. He’s also taken on a mentor role for younger players, and one can easily imagine him as a future captain when his playing days wind down. McIlroy’s Ryder Cup legacy is already among the greats – and if Europe’s resurgence continues, he may well go down as the defining European player of his generation in the event. As one headline put it, “McIlroy cemented his legendary status” by guiding Europe to another triumph with his blend of first-class play and fiery leadership
.
Shane Lowry: Passion, Clutch Performance, and the Soul of Team Europe
When Shane Lowry was announced as a captain’s pick for the 2023 Ryder Cup (and subsequently qualified again in 2025), a few skeptics questioned if his relatively modest Ryder Cup record to date justified the nod over other candidates. Lowry answered those doubts emphatically – first in Rome, where his infectious energy and solid play helped Europe reclaim the Cup, and now at Bethpage, where he delivered the defining moment of the 2025 contest. In doing so, the jovial Irishman stepped out of the shadow of his close friend Rory McIlroy and proved he is every bit as vital to Team Europe’s fabric. Lowry’s Ryder Cup heroics in New York were the culmination of a lifelong dream and a testament to the qualities that make him the epitome of a Team Europe player.
Clutch Gene Activated: Lowry’s crucial half-point on Sunday will be spoken of in European golf circles for years to come. It wasn’t just what he accomplished (holing the decisive putt) but how he handled the pressure and the context behind it. Consider that Lowry was slotted in the eighth singles match – a spot in the lower order often reserved for those whom the captain trusts to handle a clutch scenario if the outcome comes down to the wire
. Luke Donald placed Lowry, along with fighters like Tyrrell Hatton and Robert MacIntyre, in those final slots “just in case their games were needed”
. At first, no one envisioned it would come down to Lowry. “I didn’t envision myself going up 18 needing a birdie to retain the Ryder Cup,” Lowry admitted. “It was horrible.”
But when the time came, Lowry absolutely justified Donald’s faith. With Europe reeling and American crowds baying for blood, Lowry stayed remarkably focused. He later revealed that walking up 18, rather than dwell on fear, he reframed it as an opportunity: “I have a chance to do the coolest thing in my life here,” he told his caddie
. That mindset shift – from pressure to privilege – is classic Lowry. It mirrors the attitude of Graeme McDowell in 2010 or Paul McGinley in 2002, other Irishmen who embraced the moment to sink Cup-winning putts. Lowry did admit that waiting for that moment was agonizing. Watching blue leads turn red on the board gave him “the worst two hours of my life” as he tried to stay warm and ready down the stretch
. But when faced with the putt itself, Lowry was the picture of determination. He rolled it in with perfect pace – dead center. “I just can’t believe it… I can’t believe that ball went in,” he said afterward, still sounding awestruck
. Believe it, Shane – you’ve written your name into Ryder Cup folklore.
Lowry’s immediate celebration was unforgettable: a raw outpouring of relief and joy. He let out a guttural yell and punched the air, then was embraced by teammates (McIlroy and Fleetwood practically tackled him in delight)
. His father, Brendan (an Irish sports hero in his own right, having won an All-Ireland football championship in 1982), was watching greenside as Shane delivered under the ultimate pressure
. To add a personal cherry on top, Lowry’s brother’s wife was actually giving birth back home that same day – talk about a banner day for the Lowry family all around
. Once the match was secured as a tie, Lowry admitted he finally could breathe. But up until then, as he bluntly put it, “that was the hardest couple of hours of my whole life”
. His honest, heart-on-sleeve remarks endeared him even more to European fans. It’s easy to root for someone who so clearly cares. Lowry later drew a playful comparison to history: “The last time Europe won here (in the U.S.) was Medinah. Martin Kaymer had his putt, and now I’ve had mine,” he said proudly. Indeed, the image of Lowry’s ball rattling in to silence Bethpage will join the highlight reels next to Kaymer’s, McDowell’s, McGinley’s and other iconic Ryder Cup moments.
Team Spirit and Personality: Beyond the big putt, Lowry’s overall contribution to Team Europe can’t be measured just by points. It’s in the intangible qualities he brings: passion, camaraderie, and a never-say-die attitude. As Ewan Murray of The Guardian wrote, Lowry “represents everything that makes Europe so successful as a team”
. He’s fiercely dedicated, competitive, yet also the life of the party in the team room. Lowry has zero airs and graces – he’s as likely to crack a self-deprecating joke as he is to rally the troops with a rousing speech. “He has influence and fuels camaraderie way beyond the golf course,” Murray noted. “He is a great storyteller, quick-witted and does a fine line in self-deprecation. The 38-year-old is fiercely loyal, not least towards McIlroy.”
Indeed, Lowry and McIlroy are thick as thieves (the two Irishmen have been close friends for years), and that bond translates to the team environment. McIlroy has often said Lowry keeps the mood light and is someone everyone loves having around. In fact, in the tough loss of 2021, both Rory and Shane were in tears, united in their hurt
. Lowry said afterward, “No matter how long I play, for the rest of my career, I’ll want to be part of this team.”
That commitment never wavered. Through a changing of the guard on Team Europe (as many veterans retired or went to LIV Golf), Lowry emerged as a core figure in the new-look team – and now he’s won back-to-back Cups as part of that group
.
McIlroy was effusive in praising his countryman’s performance at Bethpage. “I’m so proud of Shane. I’m so grateful to have him in my life,” Rory said, noting that Lowry had even helped him during a difficult moment on Saturday. “Honestly, he put his arm around me on Saturday afternoon and he was a big reason we won that point. He has been immense this week.”
McIlroy went on to call it Lowry’s best Ryder Cup performance yet (this was Shane’s third appearance), and predicted “what Shane did will stay with him for the rest of his career.”
High praise from Europe’s top dog – and richly deserved. Lowry proved he’s not just making up the numbers on the team; he’s leading from the front when it counts. In a sense, Lowry’s journey has been about stepping out of Rory’s shadow, as the Guardian’s feature title aptly put it
. Because of their friendship and Ireland connection, Lowry often fields Rory-related questions or comparisons. He’s always handled it with grace, but in New York, Lowry authored his own chapter of Ryder Cup lore, independent of McIlroy’s star. As the Guardian quipped, “McIlroy’s outstanding achievements in golf do not extend to what Lowry produced on Sunday.”
Rory’s never actually been in the position Lowry was: to have the outcome hinge on his single putt. Lowry relished that ultimate pressure and delivered.
Fan Favorite: Lowry has also become something of a cult hero to European fans. Perhaps it’s his everyman aura – the bearded, stout-hearted Irishman who enjoys a pint and wears his heart on his sleeve. American fans tried to get under his skin, dubbing him “Teletubby” and other barbs about his weight
. Shane took it on the chin and ultimately used it as motivation. When that putt fell, he emphatically silenced the hecklers, to the delight of Europe’s supporters. Video clips of Lowry’s roar and joyous face went viral among golf fans. Even in the chaotic aftermath, Lowry provided a classic moment: he grabbed a thick marker pen and went to the giant course signage to alter the number “15” to “16” – referencing that Europe’s winning tally had moved up from 15 to 16 (since they retained the Cup)
. It was a cheeky nod to victory, the kind of thing fans love. Lowry then led a chorus of “Campeones, Campeones” with the crowd and chugged champagne from the trophy. One could see how much it meant to him. For Lowry, who grew up idolizing past Irish Ryder Cuppers, this was the stuff of boyhood dreams. He famously won the Irish Open as an amateur in 2009 and became Open Champion at Royal Portrush in 2019, so he knows about delivering under home pressures
. But he called this Ryder Cup moment “the coolest thing I’ve ever done in golf.” It’s no wonder European fans are already anointing him a future captain. He checks every box: major champion, respected by peers, loves the team event, charismatic and level-headed. In fact, the Guardian went so far as to say Lowry “could well be a future captain” and is “central to everything the USA cannot seem to get quite right.”
That last part is telling – Lowry embodies the chemistry and selflessness that has given Europe an edge in team play over the Americans time and again.
Eyes on Ireland 2027: Lowry’s Ryder Cup story still has chapters to go, and the next one is especially tantalizing. In two years, the Ryder Cup will be held on his home turf – Adare Manor in Limerick, Ireland. You can bet Lowry circled that date on his calendar long ago. “In two years’ time, he will be back on Team Europe at Adare Manor,” the Guardian noted confidently
. Lowry himself will be 40 by then – still young enough to play at a high level, and he’s made it clear he wants to be on that team. Imagine the scene: Shane Lowry stepping onto the first tee in Ireland, greeted by an explosion of support from the Irish fans. It gives goosebumps just thinking about it. Lowry, proud of his heritage and homeland, will relish the chance to represent Europe (and Ireland) on that stage
. And after what he did at Bethpage, you can be sure no one doubts his value now. Whether as a player or one day as a captain, Shane Lowry has etched his name into the Ryder Cup’s rich tapestry – and Europe is all the stronger for it.
Captain Luke Donald’s Masterclass: Leadership, Strategy, and Legacy
When Luke Donald was appointed captain of Team Europe for 2023 (after Henrik Stenson’s abrupt departure due to the LIV controversy), not everyone was convinced the mild-mannered Englishman was the right choice. He quickly proved the doubters wrong by engineering a dominant win in Rome. But it was Donald’s encore in 2025 – leading Europe to victory on U.S. soil – that elevated him to rarefied air among Ryder Cup leaders. Under Donald’s cool, calculated guidance, Europe not only reclaimed the Cup but defended it in the lion’s den of Bethpage. This feat has people asking: Is Luke Donald now Europe’s greatest Ryder Cup captain of all time? Even Keegan Bradley, the vanquished U.S. captain, admitted Donald might be “the best European Ryder Cup captain of all time” after witnessing his work firsthand
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Strategic Brilliance: Donald approached the 2025 Ryder Cup with an attention to detail and level of preparedness that drew admiration up and down the European contingent. Renowned for his cerebral style as a player (Donald was once World No.1 despite being shorter off the tee, thanks to precision and putting), he brought that same methodical mindset to captaining. The results speak for themselves. Under Donald’s stewardship, Team Europe has now gone 8-2 across 10 sessions of play (all four sessions in Rome ’23 were won, and four of five sessions in Bethpage were won or tied)
. They never trailed in either competition until deep into the final day at Bethpage. Until that tense Sunday, Donald’s Ryder Cup captaincy had been as smooth as one could dream – he later joked that the first nine sessions he captained were almost too stress-free
. The rocky finish on Sunday added some drama, but even that became a testament to Donald’s steady hand. In the pivotal moment when panic began to set in (with the U.S. mounting its comeback), Donald stepped in “cool, calm and collected” to steady his team
. Players saw their captain exuding calm and felt reassured – if Luke isn’t worried, we shouldn’t be either. That composure under fire was huge.
Donald’s meticulous planning showed up in countless “tiny, forgettable acts” behind the scenes that gave Europe an edge
. For example, Donald spearheaded early scouting trips so players could get familiar with Bethpage. He obsessively analyzed stats to create pairings that would mesh well. He even accounted for creature comforts: “At the hotel, the doors had a big crack letting in light. We brought things to cover the light. We changed the bedding, brought in nicer sheets so guys could sleep better and have more energy,” Donald revealed
. He had different, pleasant-smelling shampoo (Le Labo, Rory interjected with a laugh) placed in players’ rooms to help them relax
. These might sound like trivial details – and they are – but Donald believed that removing any potential distraction or discomfort could add up to better performance. “My job is literally to give these guys a better chance to win…some very small things,” he explained, and he wasn’t kidding
. Such extreme attention to detail borders on obsessive, but champions often are. Jon Rahm said Donald’s “level of professionalism…his attention to detail…his knowledge of Ryder Cup…is what made these last two Ryder Cups possible”, lauding him for leaving “no stone unturned”
. The players could sense that their captain had done everything possible to set them up for success, which instilled a universal “sense of calm under pressure” in the team
. Even as the pressure mounted, Donald never betrayed doubt. As one report put it, he was “poised and unflappable” even as chaos brewed around him Sunday
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Pairings and Picks: Tactically, Donald pushed all the right buttons. He stuck largely with the same 12 players from 2023, betting on continuity and chemistry
. (Indeed, 11 of the 12 from Rome returned; the only new face was a rookie, as Donald “opted for continuity” after the big win in 2023
.) This fostered a club-like atmosphere – these guys knew each other and had bonded in victory before. Donald’s pairings reflected a mix of trusted duos and inspired new combos. He reunited the likes of Fleetwood/Rose for foursomes to blend experience, and paired young Åberg with Viktor Hovland to inject youthful fearlessness (that duo notably won 9&7 in a foursomes match in Rome and continued strong). Donald wasn’t afraid to play rookies in pressure spots; he sent Ludvig Åberg out first in singles, and Åberg rewarded him by beating Cantlay
. Even the so-called “envelope rule” situation was handled smoothly. When Viktor Hovland woke up Sunday with a neck injury and couldn’t play, Donald had anticipated that scenario – he had Justin Rose placed in the opposing envelope (the player who sits out if the other team has an injured player)
. Thus, Rose vs. Cam Young was scratched and each team got 0.5 points, minimizing disruption. (Bradley later griped the envelope rule needs changing, but acknowledged Donald followed protocol
.) Donald’s proactive approach ensured Europe wasn’t caught off guard by that late curveball.
Importantly, Donald also managed personalities and egos adeptly. He leaned on a backroom staff of experienced vice-captains (the likes of Thomas Bjørn, Edoardo Molinari, Nicolas Colsaerts, etc.) and empowered veteran players to mentor the rookies. He fostered an environment where, as he said, “these weeks we spend together are the ones we cherish most”, emphasizing enjoyment as well as focus
. The team’s unity was apparent – you could see it in how they celebrated each other’s shots and hung out during downtime. Donald also deftly handled external pressures; for instance, when the media stirred up a controversy about Rory’s parking lot altercation with a U.S. caddie, Donald backed his player firmly while de-escalating the situation publicly.
Achievements and Accolades: With two wins in two tries, Luke Donald’s captaincy record is spotless. His 7-1 overall Ryder Cup record (as player, vice-captain, and captain across eight Cups) is one of the best of anyone who’s been involved that much
. And the one loss he experienced was 2008 as a player, which he’s more than made up for now. By winning in the U.S., Donald joins that elite club with Tony Jacklin – and unlike Jacklin, Luke might not be done yet. He has the chance to build a true legacy of leadership. After the win, there were immediate calls for Donald to stay on as captain for 2027 – a departure from Europe’s tradition of one-and-done captains in recent decades
. Donald himself said, “I’m never going to rule out a third Ryder Cup captaincy…,” acknowledging he would consider continuing
. If he did and succeeded in Ireland, he would unquestionably stand alone as Europe’s greatest captain. However, Donald is mindful of the succession plan; he knows if he does 2027 at home, he’d likely be asked to do 2029 away as well for continuity
. That’s a big commitment. Still, the clamor for Donald is loud. Even U.S. captain Bradley lauded him, saying “he’s the best” and praising how Donald’s team simply outperformed them
. European players have been effusive too. Jon Rahm’s quote above shows the reverence the team has for Luke’s leadership
. Rory McIlroy also credited Donald for fostering an environment where “we could back up my words and win on the road”
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Donald’s success as captain has also highlighted what one might call the “European approach” to the Ryder Cup – often contrasted with the U.S. approach. Europe emphasizes continuity, mentorship, and collective identity. Donald was vice-captain in 2018 and 2021, learning under Thomas Bjørn and Pádraig Harrington. He then captained many of the same players he’d been alongside as a teammate or vice. There’s a passing of knowledge from generation to generation (Seve to Faldo to Monty to McGinley to now Donald, etc.). Donald embraced that tradition but also added modern twists (like heavy use of analytics and those granular preparations). The result was a team that was tight-knit and relaxed yet fiercely motivated. On the flip side, Team USA in 2025 had a captain in Keegan Bradley who was somewhat of a break from their norm (a relatively young captain without major wins, chosen in part because no big-name veteran stepped up). Bradley did fine rallying his team on Sunday, but the Americans at times looked less cohesive. For instance, reports indicated not all U.S. players agreed with the course setup plan; some second-guessed it privately
. There were also murmurs about player selection (e.g., some questioned Justin Thomas’s pick given his poor form – though JT played well in the Cup, others like Dustin Johnson or Bryson were left off initially). These differences underscore how Donald’s holistic approach outmaneuvered the U.S..
Going forward, Europe will likely attempt to preserve the “Donald template”. Whether that means persuading Luke to stay on, or having him mentor the next captain (perhaps Justin Rose, who has expressed interest and learned from Donald this time
), the blueprint is there. Donald himself said he’s set the bar high for future captains
. It’s hard to argue – two Cups, two wins, including an away victory. That’s a captaincy résumé for the ages. As a player, Donald was known for steady excellence (4–0 in his only four matches in the 2012 miracle comeback, for instance). As a captain, he’s proven visionary and inspirational. However the future plays out, Luke Donald’s name will be spoken of with the likes of Jacklin and McGinley in European Ryder Cup lore – a born leader who restored Europe’s pride and then some.
The American Side: A Battle Lost, Lessons Learned, and a Look to 2027
From a European perspective, it’s tempting to revel in the victory without dwelling on the vanquished. But any comprehensive Ryder Cup reflection owes a nod to the U.S. team’s role – both in pushing Europe to the brink and in how their own struggles contributed to the outcome. Team USA arrived at Bethpage as slight betting favorites, boasting 7 of the world’s top 10 players and riding the confidence of a record 19–9 win just four years prior. Their captain, Keegan Bradley, was a Ryder Cup rookie sensation as a player in 2012 and brought an underdog energy to the role. For two days, though, the Americans were blitzed. Some self-inflicted issues – questionable prep, misfiring stars, and perhaps overconfidence – left them facing a huge deficit. To their credit, they showed tremendous fight on Sunday, nearly pulling off what would have been the Ryder Cup’s greatest comeback. In the end, they fell just short, and will have to regroup once more.
Slow Start, Painful Finish: The American camp was left to rue another away Ryder Cup where they fell behind early. It’s become a pattern: in Paris 2018, they trailed 5–3 after Day 1 and never recovered; in Rome 2023, they were down 6½–1½ after the opening day. Bethpage 2025 was, if anything, even worse through two days (5½–2½, then 4½–11½). There’s something about foursomes, especially, that has plagued the U.S. – the alternate-shot format demands cohesion, and Europe thrived there. The U.S. won 0 foursomes matches out of 8 at Bethpage (with a couple halves) – a devastating stat. American stars like Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas, normally reliable as a pair, struggled and didn’t secure the early points Team USA desperately needed. Meanwhile, some of captain Bradley’s wildcard picks and pairings backfired. For instance, Max Homa and Brian Harman (both Cup rookies) were sent out together in foursomes; they lost badly, perhaps due to nerves or inexperience as a duo. The American team also had to integrate players who had been out of the traditional U.S. team system – Bryson DeChambeau and Brooks Koepka were playing a Ryder Cup while primarily on LIV Golf, which may have affected chemistry or sharpness. Koepka, the reigning PGA champion, was fairly quiet on course. DeChambeau did stage an impressive rally to halve his singles match against Matt Fitzpatrick after being 5 down
, but earlier he and Scheffler were trounced by Rose/Fleetwood. All told, the potent American lineup didn’t click until it was too late.
Then there’s the crowd factor, which to some extent became a double-edged sword for Team USA. The New York fans were expected to boost the Americans by rattling Europe, and they certainly tried. However, as the U.S. team faltered early, the crowd’s energy turned negative – frustration boiled over into ugly heckling rather than positive support
. Some U.S. players, like Justin Thomas, admitted the level of vitriol was unsettling
. Instead of inspiring the U.S., the toxic atmosphere might have done the opposite at first, almost embarrassing the American side and fueling Europe (Chamblee’s line about Europe playing better the worse the crowd behaved rings true
). Only on Sunday, when American players gave the fans something to cheer about, did the crowd’s passion become a true asset – and boy, did they roar during that comeback attempt. The USA’s Sunday surge deserves praise: they showed immense pride to take 8½ points in singles, the most any team has ever scored in a 12-match session
. The likes of Collin Morikawa, Xander Schauffele, Patrick Cantlay, and home-state hero Cameron Young all delivered wins under pressure. They nearly turned 12–5 into a miracle. Captain Bradley said, “We went to bed Saturday and I could see the belief in their eyes…these guys were ready to go out and win and they did that [in singles].”
There’s honor in that fight. But alas for the U.S., it was a classic case of too little, too late. As Bradley lamented, “The Europeans won one match today…if you think about the odds of something like that happening… it shows you just how proud [our] guys are.”
Proud indeed – yet that incredible singles effort only served to make the margin of defeat respectable. The Cup was lost in the first two days. Or as ESPN put it, “the U.S. team dug itself too big of a hole in the first two days”
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American Introspection: So what now for Team USA? In the immediate aftermath, there was a palpable sense of frustration and a search for answers. Keegan Bradley, classy in defeat, shouldered blame for his mistakes (course setup, some pairing choices)
. He also voiced that the “envelope rule has to change”, feeling it unfair that an injured European (Hovland) cost the U.S. a chance at another full point – though realistically, that half point was a minor piece of the puzzle
. Some American players alluded to being caught off guard by just how together and on-point Europe was. It’s clear the U.S. will revisit its selection and preparation process. After a loss in 2014, the U.S. famously formed a “task force” to fix things, which led to sweeping changes and eventually big wins in 2016 and 2021. Now, losing two Cups in a row (especially one at home) may spur another mini reboot. They might reconsider giving younger, less experienced captains the helm; the U.S. pattern had been to favor seasoned veterans (like Love, Furyk, Stricker). Bradley’s youthful enthusiasm was admirable, but perhaps a steadier hand could have made different choices. On the flip side, the Americans might conclude that star power for captains matters. Which brings us to an intriguing prospect: could Tiger Woods step in as the next U.S. captain? Many in the American golf community are clamoring for it. Tiger was offered the 2025 captaincy but reportedly declined due to other commitments
. Now, with the 2027 match in Ireland looming, speculation is rampant that Tiger will take the reins
. Woods will be 51 then, about the same age Europe’s captains often are. He’s known to be close with Adare Manor’s owner (JP McManus), and his presence would certainly fire up the U.S. team and fans
. There are other candidates (Phil Mickelson’s name would be there if not for his LIV fallout; other possibilities include Brandt Snedeker, Webb Simpson or even veterans like Zach Johnson returning), but Tiger is the big fish. Whether the greatest player of his era can be a great captain is an open question – some worry legendary players don’t translate to great coaches
– but it might be a gamble the U.S. is willing to take given the circumstances.
In terms of personnel, the U.S. pipeline remains extremely strong. By 2027, the core we saw at Bethpage – Scheffler, Morikawa, Cantlay, Schauffele, Thomas, Spieth, etc. – will still be in their primes (late 20s to mid-30s). They’ll be hungrier than ever after tasting defeat twice. There may be new names too: perhaps Sam Burns, Will Zalatoris (if healthy), or current young hotshots like Gordon Sargent (a prodigious talent) breaking through. The U.S. has no shortage of talent; it’s about harnessing it in this team format. One area the Americans might need to address is the team culture and preparation when playing in Europe. They’ve struggled with adapting to foreign environments and course setups in the past. Seeing how rowdy Bethpage got, they can anticipate a raucous scene in Ireland as well (though of a different flavor). Handling that pressure and flipping the away narrative will be a top priority. Don’t be surprised if the Americans shake up their approach, maybe even holding their own team bonding trips or practice sessions abroad ahead of time. After Gleneagles 2014, Phil Mickelson famously criticized how the U.S. lacked a cohesive plan – which led to the new system of continuity. That worked for home Cups and one big away win in 2016. But apparently it wasn’t enough in Paris or Rome or now Bethpage. So the drawing board awaits again.
From Europe’s biased lens, one might cheekily say: Not our problem! Let the U.S. sort themselves out while we enjoy the spoils. But Europe should beware – a wounded American team with mega-stars and possibly Tiger at the helm will be a formidable foe in 2027. The rivalry aspect is only growing. The Americans will be desperate to avoid three straight losses (they haven’t suffered that since the 1980s when Europe first began dominating). The Ryder Cup pendulum of momentum has swung back to Europe, but it could swing again if complacency sets in. That said, as of now, Europe holds the upper hand and the cherished trophy – and that’s something European fans will happily remind their American friends of for the next two years.
Fan Culture: Bethpage Bedlam vs. European Spirit
One of the biggest storylines of the 2025 Ryder Cup turned out to be the behavior of the fans – particularly the home fans at Bethpage. It’s worth exploring this aspect, because it became a talking point for players and media on both sides, and it sets up an interesting contrast (and challenge) for 2027.
Bethpage Boorishness: Everyone expected the New York crowd to be loud and partisan; nobody expected the level of hostility and chaos that actually unfolded. Across the three days, there were multiple reports of fans crossing the line with abuse, taunts during backswings, and even physical antics. Reuters described “volleys of abuse and vulgar chants” aimed at European players and noted the atmosphere “tainted the competition for a third straight day” by Sunday
. Bottles were thrown, extra security was called in, and by Sunday giant video boards flashed warnings that overly intoxicated fans would be ejected
. The fact a Ryder Cup emcee (announcer) was caught on video leading a “F<em>*</em> you Rory” chant – and subsequently resigned in disgrace – says it all about the loss of decorum
. Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry in particular bore the brunt of the heckling. Rory was targeted from day one, to the point he finally snapped back verbally at a fan who yelled as he stood over a crucial shot
. On Sunday, one spectator’s ill-timed shout forced McIlroy to reset his swing on the 10th tee
. Lowry, meanwhile, endured childish name-calling (the “Teletubby” thing) and general jeers – which only made his triumph sweeter. The American fans seized on any vulnerability; they heckled Justin Rose for slow play, taunted European rookies about being nobodies, and cheered European misses a bit too aggressively. Even European wives and families weren’t spared – McIlroy’s wife being hit by a beer thrown from the crowd was a shocking low
. Another ugly moment: Justin Rose getting into a spat with Bryson DeChambeau and his caddie after some fan interactions, showing that tensions affected players too
. European veteran Ian Poulter, watching from home (he wasn’t on the team), tweeted that the atmosphere was a “bad look” for golf, lamenting the altercations and hoping for just pure passion without the nastiness
. Even some American players were uneasy – Justin Thomas said while he didn’t think anyone’s safety was in danger, “words hurt, too”, indicating the verbal abuse bothered them as well
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The consensus from many observers was that this Bethpage crowd was among the worst-behaved in Ryder Cup history. Sky Sports commentators openly debated if it was the worst ever, noting “a lot of nonsense being shouted” and fans clearly “crossing the line”
. Some pointed to Kiawah Island 1991 (“War by the Shore”) or Brookline 1999 as comparables, but 2025 certainly joined that dubious list. It’s a shame, because the Ryder Cup is known for passionate crowds and creative cheering – but there’s a line between partisan and petulant. Brandel Chamblee on Golf Channel summed it up: “It was funny: the more profane the fans got, the more insane the quality of play from Europe got.”
In other words, the nasty tactics may have backfired by steeling Europe’s resolve. McIlroy fed off it on Saturday, using the anger as fuel. Lowry clearly thrived off silencing them Sunday. So in the end, those fans might have actually helped Europe in a roundabout way. Regardless, Rory called out the behavior unambiguously: “Golf should be held to a higher standard…this should not be acceptable in the Ryder Cup.”
He acknowledged it was a minority of fans causing trouble, but said he would ensure European fans don’t replicate it in future
. The PGA of America (who host the U.S. side of things) was surely embarrassed – within 24 hours, even Bubba Watson (a vice-captain) issued a public apology to Team Europe for the “rude” fan behavior
. It was an ugly chapter in an otherwise thrilling Ryder Cup.
European Fan Culture: Now, looking ahead, this raises the question: what will the atmosphere be like at Adare Manor 2027 in Ireland, and how will European fans respond? Traditionally, European crowds have been passionate but generally respectful. Think of Gleneagles 2014 or Paris 2018 – boisterous singing, creative chants (like the sing-song “Tommy, Tommy Fleetwood” tune in Paris), but relatively little in terms of heckling opponents. In Rome 2023, there was one incident: fans teasing Patrick Cantlay by waving their caps (after rumors he refused to wear one over not being paid) and chanting about “hats”. That was mostly tongue-in-cheek banter – though Cantlay’s caddie took offense, leading to the McIlroy parking lot spat. Still, by and large European crowds haven’t been as abusive as what we saw at Bethpage. They also often cheer good shots by Americans (politely) even as they favor their own.
Given Rory’s public plea, one expects the Irish crowd in 2027 will make a point to be loud and sportsmanlike. As Rory put it, “we will be making sure to say to our fans in Ireland in 2027 that what happened here this week is not acceptable.”
That message will be delivered clearly via the European Tour and Ryder Cup Europe organization. Irish fans are among the most knowledgeable and enthusiastic in golf – witness the Open at Portrush 2019 or the Irish Opens. They’ll relish their first Ryder Cup since 2006 at the K Club. You can bet they will sing, dress up, and create an electric atmosphere. (In fact, Irish crowds have a repertoire of soccer-style chants ready to go.) But one suspects they’ll also take pride in being better behaved than what went on at Bethpage, if only to give the moral high ground back to Europe. The world will be watching after all the controversy in 2025. European fans often talk about doing things “the right way”. A Golf Digest piece even opined that Bethpage proved “European fans simply do it better” when it comes to passionate yet respectful support
. The loudest sound at Bethpage, that article quipped, was at times “the lack of it” – implying U.S. fans fell quiet when their team struggled, whereas European fans sing all day regardless
. Whether entirely fair or not, the perception is European crowds bring more creative positivity to their support, versus the American crowds that can turn hostile.
For 2027, expect massive European fan turnout. Being in Ireland, it will be like a home game for McIlroy and Lowry specifically, so the decibel levels will be off the charts when they play. Irish fans will also likely adopt some of the amusing tropes – maybe you’ll see leprechaun costumes, plenty of tricolour flags, and creative songs (who knows, perhaps a Shane Lowry chant to the tune of “Ole Ole Ole” could emerge). The challenge will be containing the euphoria within respectful bounds. There’s always a chance a few might decide to give American players a taste of their own medicine (some might have an urge to heckle back). But leadership from figures like McIlroy and Donald will be crucial in setting expectations. It’s worth noting: at Whistling Straits 2021, the U.S. home crowd was actually pretty decent, and European players thanked them for fairness despite a one-sided result. So it really varies venue to venue. Bethpage, with its reputation from past PGA Tour events (fans there infamously heckled Sergio Garcia relentlessly in 2002 U.S. Open, for example), was perhaps predictably edgy. Adare Manor, by contrast, is a more upscale venue – a luxury resort owned by a billionaire. That might attract a different crowd composition (lots of corporate guests and golf aficionados who made a trip of it). The Irish will be loud, but the hope and expectation is it’ll be festive loud, not nasty loud.
Unity in Passion: One thing is for sure – Ryder Cup fans on both sides are among the most passionate in sports. The scenes of Europeans holding up their shoes at Bethpage (mimicking the cap-waving saga from Rome) show that back-and-forth banter is now part of the theatre
. In New York, some U.S. spectators wore gigantic comical hats in response to the Cantlay cap drama, leaning into the joke
. So not everything was ugly; there was humor too. We can expect similar tongue-in-cheek antics in Ireland – perhaps American fans will try to start a “No hats, no hats!” chant to poke fun at themselves, or Irish fans might serenade visiting American fans in pubs with classic Irish hospitality (Guinness will flow, to be sure). The fan experience is part of what makes the Ryder Cup magical. It’s one of the few golf events where crowd noise is encouraged. In 2025 we maybe saw the extreme edge of that; the hope is 2027 brings it back to a healthier balance.
From Europe’s perspective, the fans are our “15th club” in the bag at home. As much as the U.S. fans gave stick in New York, European supporters will give love in Limerick. They’ll lift our players when the pressure is on. Think of Medinah 2012 Sunday – it was U.S. soil, but a pocket of European fans sang all day and the team drew inspiration. In 2027, that home support could genuinely be worth a couple of points. Shane Lowry, in particular, feeds off crowd energy; we saw him rev up the Roman galleries in 2023 by pumping fists and exhorting cheers. Rory, too, often plays his best when the crowd is frenzied (witness his dominance at the K Club in 2016 Irish Open). So expect the European team to ride a wave of emotion from the stands. The challenge will be maintaining focus – but that’s where experienced heads in the team will remind everyone to keep emotions in check between the ropes.
All in all, the fan narrative adds another layer of intrigue for 2027. Europe will aim to showcase the best of Ryder Cup sportsmanship on home turf, proving that passion and class can coexist. As a European supporter, one can’t wait to hear the first roar when a blue scoreboard lights up Adare Manor. The Ryder Cup’s slogan is “Make it count” – and you can bet the fans will, in full voice, hopefully for all the right reasons.
From Bethpage to Adare Manor: Europe’s Momentum and the Road Ahead to 2027
With the dust settling on the dramatic 2025 Ryder Cup, Team Europe finds itself in a position of strength and optimism. They’ve wrested back control of the Cup with two consecutive wins (2023 and 2025), including the all-important away victory that had eluded them for over a decade. Now the scene shifts in two years’ time to Adare Manor, Ireland, where Europe will attempt to make it three in a row. What can we expect looking forward, and how are both teams positioned as we project toward 2027?
European Core and Emerging Talent: One of the most encouraging signs for Europe is that their current success isn’t built on a fleeting golden generation – it’s a blend of proven veterans in their prime and a pipeline of rising stars. Come 2027, Europe’s lineup will likely still feature its “Big Three” of Rory McIlroy, Jon Rahm, and Viktor Hovland – all of whom are around age 30–38 in that year, still near peak form. McIlroy, as discussed, remains the heartbeat of the team and will be extra motivated to lead on home soil. Rahm is a force of nature who loves match play, and Hovland (if healthy after that neck scare) is trending to be a European linchpin for years, given his talent and now leadership experience. Beyond them, the supporting cast in 2025 also skewed relatively young: guys like Tyrrell Hatton (will be 35 in 2027), Matt Fitzpatrick (33), and Tommy Fleetwood (36) should all still be competitive and hungry to add to their Ryder Cup legacies. Fleetwood, for example, has become a team stalwart and could even be a vice-captain type figure by then if his game somehow dips (though it’s hard to imagine the silky-haired Englishman not making the team).
Crucially, Europe has successfully integrated rookies who are future stars. Ludvig Åberg, 25, announced himself to the world in this Ryder Cup and looks every bit a generational talent – by 2027 he could be one of Europe’s leading points earners, not just a rookie revelation. The Højgaard twins from Denmark – Nicolai (who played in 2023 at 22) and Rasmus – are both huge talents and likely to feature. Nicolai was in the ’23 team and though he missed ’25, he’ll be 26 in 2027, potentially hitting his stride. Robert MacIntyre of Scotland, who had a tough task anchoring in singles at Bethpage (he didn’t need to finish as Europe won earlier), will be 31 in 2027 and could bring that lefty flair and grit again. Also keep an eye on players like Sepp Straka (Austrian, 34 in 2027) who was in the ’23 team, Adrian Meronk (Poland’s top golfer, 34) who narrowly missed the ’23 team, and perhaps Guido Migliozzi (Italy, 30) or Victor Perez (France, 35) – all solid players who could challenge for spots. Europe’s talent pool, which some worried was thin post-Westwood/Poulter/Garcia era, suddenly looks robust. The DP World Tour’s emphasis on bringing through youth via events like the Hero Cup (an intra-European team match introduced in 2023) has helped identify and blood new talent. By 2027, we might even see a couple completely new names – maybe a top amateur or two who turns pro and catches fire (as Åberg did). Golf can be unpredictable that way.
One emotional angle: Adare Manor 2027 should mark the Ryder Cup swansong for some beloved European figures. If veterans like Justin Rose or Sergio García (depending on LIV Golf reintegration) haven’t officially retired by then, the home Ryder Cup could be a fitting final bow in some capacity (though Garcia’s situation is murky; he’d be 47 and would need to mend bridges with leadership to be involved). Ian Poulter and Lee Westwood, also in their 50s by then, likely won’t play, but who knows if some reconciliation might see them attend or assist given their past contributions – that’s speculative, but the romance of an Irish Ryder Cup might bring surprises. In any case, Team Europe in 2027 should have an excellent mix of major champions, match-play specialists, and fearless newcomers.
Leadership and Captaincy: As discussed, Luke Donald’s future role is a hot topic. Will he return for a third captaincy? Many, including Donald himself, have left that door open
. If he does, it provides continuity and the aura of a captain who has never lost. However, Europe might also tap someone new, given how many deserving candidates are coming up. If not Donald, Justin Rose stands out – he’s hugely respected, a proven team leader, and expressed that he’d “love to take it on” after seeing Donald’s blueprint
. Rose will be 47, right in line with typical captain age. Another possibility is Francesco Molinari, who will be 44 and was a vice-captain in ’23; plus, an Italian leading a team in Ireland could be a nod to pan-European flavor (though captains are usually chosen for achievements, and Molinari is an Open champ and 5-0 hero from 2018). We also can’t rule out Graeme McDowell (who, if LIV issues settle, could be a sentimental choice for a Cup in Ireland given he’s Northern Irish, and he sank the winning putt in 2010). For now, momentum seems to be behind giving Donald the chance to three-peat. European Ryder Cup veterans like Sir Nick Faldo never got that chance (Faldo captained only in 2008 and lost), and typically we haven’t repeated captains so soon. But Donald is a special case. If he wants it, I suspect the job is his. Either way, the leadership direction is strong – Donald has set a template, and whoever leads will have a clear roadmap of what works.
On the U.S. side, as noted, Tiger Woods is the X-factor. Golf media is buzzing that Tiger will indeed be the 2027 U.S. Captain
. It makes a lot of sense: he’s been a playing vice-captain effectively (in 2016 when injured) and a Presidents Cup captain (2019, which he won while playing). His gravitas could unify the team and perhaps intimidate Europe a bit (imagine Tiger prowling the sidelines). If not Tiger, other names include Zach Johnson or Davis Love III (though both have captained recently, they might avoid reusing so soon), or someone like Stewart Cink or Jim Furyk if they wanted a non-Tiger, non-Phil option. But all signs point to Tiger. The U.S. will also likely look at some younger blood on the team. By 2027, stalwarts like Brooks Koepka (37), Jordan Spieth (34), Justin Thomas (34), Patrick Cantlay (35) will still be in play, but they might be complemented by newbies. Perhaps the likes of Cameron Young (who impressed in 2025 singles and is only 30 in 2027), Sam Burns (31), Denny McCarthy (who is a great putter, 34) or even collegiate stars not yet on Tour. One thing: the U.S. talent pipeline in golf is arguably even deeper than Europe’s, but team chemistry has been their question mark abroad. If Tiger captains, his challenge will be fostering a true team ethos that travels.
Venue Factors – Adare Manor: The stage for 2027 could not be more different from Bethpage. Adare Manor, located in County Limerick, is a plush parkland course on a stately estate. It hosted the 2022 JP McManus Pro-Am where many top players raved about its pristine condition. The course is not a traditional links; it’s more akin to Gleneagles or The K Club in setup – rolling parkland with water hazards, manicured fairways, and plenty of Irish charm. The weather could play a role – late September in Ireland can be wet and cool, so conditions might be soft. That usually favors Europe, who often set up courses with slower greens and lush rough to negate U.S. bombers. Expect Europe’s captain to do just that: narrow fairways, thick rough, tricky pin positions – essentially the opposite of what the U.S. did at Bethpage. Adare has some risk-reward holes (notably a reachable par-5 18th by the manor hotel, which will be an epic closing hole for match play). European players will be more familiar with the conditions, and the home captain can tailor it to their strengths (if Donald, he’ll surely fine-tune every detail again). The venue is also somewhat intimate; as a resort, it might have fewer massive grandstands than a public behemoth like Bethpage. But rest assured, they will build plenty of infrastructure to accommodate loud crowds.
The Irish element is key: Irish fans are historically amazing hosts. Recall the 2006 Ryder Cup at The K Club (Ireland’s first time hosting) – Europe won 18½–9½ in a joyous atmosphere punctuated by Darren Clarke’s emotional performance weeks after his wife’s passing. That week, the Irish crowd’s empathy and support were widely praised. 2027 will harken back to that, albeit with modern social media-driven fan engagement (expect lots of viral crowd moments). Also, having two Irish superstars on the team (McIlroy & Lowry) will make the home crowd even more partisan and confident. Everyone will want to see them shine. Lowry has already said playing a Ryder Cup in Ireland would be a “life long dream”
, and one can imagine him possibly even holing another crucial putt in front of his home fans – storybook stuff.
European Confidence: Europe will enter 2027 in the position the U.S. did in 2018: back-to-back winners and hosting, thus favored. But they must guard against complacency. As heroic as 2025 was, it also showed that margins are thin – if Lowry misses, maybe the U.S. completes the comeback. So Europe cannot afford to assume home field = automatic win. The U.S. team will be loaded and extra motivated to end the 30+ year away drought. However, one can’t help but feel Europe’s team culture is flourishing right now. The old legends (Seve, Faldo, Monty, Poulter, García, etc.) built a legacy, and now the torch is firmly in the hands of McIlroy, Rahm, et al. They seem to have forged an identity that blends that historical pride with new-school camaraderie. In interviews, European players often speak of playing for each other and for the memories they create as a team
. That bond can be a secret weapon. By contrast, American players mostly see each other as rivals of the year (since they compete individually on the PGA Tour), coming together just for this event. They’ve improved on that front in recent years (the “pod system” and frequent team dinners etc.), but Europe’s unity still appears more organic.
Looking forward, one might speculate on certain matchups or storylines we’d love to see in 2027: Perhaps Rory vs. Tiger as captains if Tiger ends up as a playing vice-captain or something (unlikely to play, but he might be on course guiding). Or Rory taking on an American young gun in singles with the home crowd on every shot. The possibility of Rahm vs. Scheffler in a battle of world #1s. Maybe Aberg vs. Morikawa – two silky swingers – renewing a rivalry. And how about the emotional farewell of a Luke Donald or Justin Rose lifting the trophy as captain one more time on the 18th green, with champagne raining down over an Adare Manor sunset? These are the images European fans already dream of.
In summary, as Europe basks in the glow of the 2025 victory, there is much to be excited about. The team has strong leadership, a pipeline of talent, and the next edition is on home soil at a venue that should play to European strengths. Fan enthusiasm is at a high, especially after witnessing the grit of this 2025 team. Social media in Europe was alight with praise for the team’s passion and jabs at the American bravado – all in good fun, setting the stage for a spicy 2027 narrative. The Ryder Cup, at its core, is cyclical: momentum swings, legends rise and fall. Right now, it feels like Europe has its swagger back fully after the humbling of 2021. There’s a sense that a new era of European dominance could be beginning – but only if they continue to innovate, prepare, and channel the passion that has defined their past successes.
One thing is certain: the 2027 Ryder Cup at Adare Manor will be an unmissable event. For casual golf followers, it will offer the spectacle of a unique sporting event steeped in tradition and teamwork. For dedicated Ryder Cup fans, it promises another chapter in the ever-enthralling USA vs Europe saga. With heroes like McIlroy and Lowry further etching their legacies, and new ones sure to emerge, European supporters have every reason to be optimistic. As the countdown to Ireland begins, the message from this side of the pond is clear: the Ryder Cup is coming home to Europe, and we fully intend to keep it.
In the words of Rory McIlroy – which might well become a mantra for Team Europe – “I have absolute confidence in this team.”
With unity, skill, and that unmistakable European passion, Team Europe will aim to turn that confidence into yet another victory lap in 2027, fueled by the echoes of Bethpage and the hopes of a continent.
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--- *Reporting and details adapted from ESPN, CBS Sports, The Guardian, Reuters, Sky Sports, Golf Digest and other outlets.*