September 22nd, 2008
USA canter to Ryder Cup victory
America picked up their first Ryder Cup since 1999 with an emphatic five-point victory over Europe.
Leading 9-7 going into the final days singles matches America secured victory with four matches to spare when Jim Furyk beat Spaniard Miguel Angel Jimenez.
Furyk’s victory prevented the Europeans wining the Cup for an unprecedented fourth time and sparked wild celebrations at the Valhalla course.
Paul Azinger’s men dominated proceedings from the start of the event, ending the first day’s play three points clear of the European Team.
Europe managed to pull back a point on Saturday to leave themselves just two points down going into the singles matches, where a total of twelve points are up for grabs.
Faldo sent out Ryder Cup stalwart Sergio Garcia for the first match of the day, but the youngest member of either side, Anthony Kim, comprehensively beat the Spaniard.
Kim beat Garcia with four holes remaining and his victory set the tone for the day, with America winning seven of the 12 matches.
The four European winners were Ian Poulter, Robert Karlsson, Justin Rose and debutant Graeme McDowell.
Captain Faldo remained defiant after the biggest European defeat since 1981. “One of my goals was to leave knowing I did my best for the team and I’m more than happy,” he said. “I’m proud of everyone. All 24 guys gave their all and we came up short.”
Faldo defended the order he sent out his team on the final day. Three-time Open winner Padraig Harrington, Lee Westwood and Ian Poulter were sent out in the final three spots.
This strategy backfired, as Europe had already lost the Cup before their matches had finished.
“It was mighty close. It could have gone any way at any particular moment and then it could have gone all the way to Padraig’s match,” Faldo commented.
“That was the risk I guess you take, but I’m comfortable with everything. Everybody has given 100% and that’s all you can do.”
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