In an electrifying Ryder Cup showdown in Guidonia Montecelio, Italy, Europe clinched victory on Sunday, continuing its dominant tradition of triumphing on home soil. Rory McIlroy played a pivotal role, and Tommy Fleetwood delivered the decisive blow to secure the win.
McIlroy’s passion was evident throughout the event, fueled in part by what he perceived as unsportsmanlike behavior by Patrick Cantlay’s caddie the previous night. McIlroy’s exceptional performance included winning his fourth match of the week, marking his best Ryder Cup showing to date.
Fleetwood etched his name into Ryder Cup history with a remarkable shot on the signature hole at Marco Simone – a drive that found the green 25 feet from the cup on the reachable 16th. In contrast, Rickie Fowler’s ball found the water hazard, leading to a concession of a short birdie to Fleetwood. This crucial point propelled Europe to the 14 1/2 points required for victory.
As the final point was secured, the customary European celebration ignited, echoing the tradition of jubilation on their home turf.
The American team came into this Ryder Cup with the confidence of a record-setting 19-9 victory over Europe at Whistling Straits two years ago. They were determined to end three decades of away losses, but Europe had other plans. This marked the Americans’ 34th consecutive Ryder Cup defeat on European soil, with their next opportunity not arising until Adare Manor in Ireland in 2027.
Entering the final session with a commanding five-point lead, Europe knew that no team had ever come back from such a deficit on the Ryder Cup’s final day. While the Americans mounted a spirited challenge, it proved to be fleeting.
Notable performances from Jon Rahm, who secured a crucial half-point against Scottie Scheffler on the 18th hole, and Tyrrell Hatton, who remained undefeated throughout the week by defeating British Open champion Brian Harman, contributed to Europe’s success. Viktor Hovland added another point with a victory over Collin Morikawa.
With the outcome hinging on a single point, Tommy Fleetwood’s 2-up lead with two holes to play against Rickie Fowler sealed the deal and triggered the joyous celebration that has become synonymous with European Ryder Cup victories on their home turf.