Scottie Scheffler, the world’s top golfer, suffered one of his career’s most challenging moments at the last Ryder Cup in Rome. Paired with Brooks Koepka, they were defeated 9 and 7 by Europe duo Viktor Hovland and Ludvig Aberg in the Saturday morning foursomes. This defeat marked the largest margin ever in an 18-hole Ryder Cup match.
Following the shocking result, a visibly emotional Scheffler was comforted by his wife Meredith, who has been a constant support since his teenage years. The loss underscored Europe’s supremacy as they extended their lead to 9–2 that morning, paving the way for their ultimate triumph. Despite the Americans entering the match boasting more major championship pedigree, it was the European duo who seized the limelight.
Hovland and Aberg secured nine of the first eleven holes and concluded the match with six consecutive birdies. The defeat was particularly bitter for Scheffler, who had previously contributed to Team USA’s significant victory at Whistling Straits in 2021.
Cameras captured him shedding tears and he was subsequently sidelined for the afternoon session. His overall performance in Rome was disappointing, ending winless at 0–2–2.
Despite being the highest-ranked golfer globally, he failed to score points for captain Zach Johnson’s team.
This year’s Ryder Cup is taking place at Bethpage Black in New York this weekend. The USA team will be under the leadership of captain Keegan Bradley, while Europe will once again be steered by Luke Donald following their triumph in Rome.
The tournament will adhere to the traditional Ryder Cup format: four foursomes and four fourballs on each of the first two days, followed by 12 singles matches on Sunday. The Americans are hoping to capitalise on their home advantage and a fervent New York crowd to reclaim the cup.
Europe, meanwhile, will be aiming to build on the synergy and success of its 2023 squad. Early team developments already hint at another gripping contest.
Rory McIlroy is once again flying the flag for Team Europe, marking his eighth Ryder Cup appearance. Their core group, including Hovland and Jon Rahm, have returned to provide them with continuity.
For the USA, Bradley will face the task of blending seasoned players such as Scheffler and Justin Thomas with younger players and Ryder Cup newcomers like Ben Griffin, JJ Spaun, Russell Henley, and Cameron Young.
Bookmakers currently favour the Americans as slight favourites given the home setting, but Europe have momentum after their resounding win in Rome.