The Ryder Cup reaches its climax this Sunday at Bethpage Black, where two of golf’s biggest names will kick off the singles roster. Spain’s Jon Rahm, fresh off a string of clutch shots, will lead Team Europe, while world‑number‑one Scottie Scheffler has been handed the honour of opening for Team USA. Their head‑to‑head start could very well shape the final day’s narrative.
Why Rahm and Scheffler were chosen to open
Team Europe captain Luke Donald has been vocal about Rahm’s unparalleled consistency throughout the event. The Spaniard posted a flawless 4‑0‑0 record in foursomes, a format that demands seamless teamwork and precise shot‑making. His partnership with Tyrrell Hatton has already delivered three vital points, and a jaw‑dropping chip‑in on Saturday turned a potential loss into a win, swinging momentum in Europe’s favour.
On the American side, captain Zach Johnson faced a tougher decision, as the USA roster boasts several major winners. In the end, the choice fell to Scottie Scheffler, whose recent form includes two tour victories in the past three months and a solid display in the fourball matches, where he posted a 2‑1‑0 record. Scheffler’s calm demeanor under pressure and his ability to lock in a birdie when the stakes are high make him a natural fit for the opening slot.
Key players, past performances and what’s at stake
Both captains have leaned heavily on veteran experience. Rahm enters the singles with a career Ryder Cup record of 6‑3‑3, including a perfect foursomes run, while Scheffler, though newer to the competition, already boasts a 3‑1‑0 record from his 2023 debut. Their opening matches will pit each against a teammate from the opposing side, meaning the first point could set a psychological tone for the remaining 11 singles.
- Jon Rahm – 2023 European champion, two‑time major winner, 4‑0‑0 in foursomes this edition.
- Scottie Scheffler – Current world No.1, 2023 U.S. Open champion, strong fourball performer.
- Tyrrell Hatton – Rahm’s reliable partner, solid 2‑1‑0 foursomes record.
- Jordan Spieth – USA veteran, looking to rebound after a mixed start.
The venue adds another layer of drama. Bethpage Black, known for its brutal rough and penal greens, has been the backdrop for some of the most memorable Ryder Cup moments. Players who thrive under pressure often turn the course’s challenges into opportunities, and both Rahm and Scheffler have proven they can navigate tough conditions.Europe comes into Sunday as defending champions after a convincing 16½‑11½ victory in Rome in 2023. The team’s confidence is high, but the USA is hungrier than ever, driven by a desire to reclaim the trophy after a five‑year drought. Opening with their premier players underscores the magnitude of the day ahead.
As the sun rises over the iconic fairways, all eyes will be on the first tee. Will Rahm’s laser‑focused swing give Europe an early edge, or will Scheffler’s steady composure tip the scales toward an American comeback? The answer will set the tone for what promises to be a thrilling race to the final point.
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