"Team USA and Europe Face Off in Intense Opening Day at Ryder Cup 2025"

The 2025 Ryder Cup began on Friday at Bethpage Black, with the United States and Europe opening their contests in the morning fourball session. Fans turned out in large numbers to witness the start of the three-day competition, which is being staged in New York for the first time in nearly three decades.

The opening matches featured high-profile pairings as both teams sought to gain early momentum. The American side, captained by Keegan Bradley, fielded a mix of veterans and younger talent. Europe, led by Luke Donald, countered with several players who had been instrumental in their victory at the previous Ryder Cup in Rome in 2023.

Play on the demanding Black Course quickly underscored the challenge of the venue, with its length, narrow fairways, and thick rough. The morning session produced closely fought matches, with neither side able to establish overwhelming control. Strong putting and aggressive play created several lead changes across the early contests.

The Ryder Cup is contested over three days, with foursomes and fourball matches on Friday and Saturday, followed by 12 singles matches on Sunday. Each match is worth one point, with 14½ points needed to secure the Cup and 14 points enough for the defending side to retain it.

The event is drawing global attention not only for its competition but also for its atmosphere. The New York crowd has been especially vocal, adding to the intensity of the matches. As play continues through the first day, both teams are aiming to seize an advantage that could set the tone for the remainder of the tournament.

Sources: Sky Sports, USA Today, Sporting News, Yahoo Sports, The Athletic.