Ryder Cup 2023: Team Europe open record-equalling lead over US on opening day in Rome with dominant performance
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Updated 30/09/2023 at 08:00 GMT
Friday saw the European Ryder Cup team open a five-point lead over their American opponents after a dominant display on the opening day of the event in Rome. They lead 6½-1½ ahead of Saturday's match-ups, and have a bigger advantage on the opening day than has been achieved before, except for the USA in 1975 and the European team more recently, in 2004.
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Europe have a 6½-1½ lead over the United States after a dominant display on the first day of the Ryder Cup in Rome.
The lead is the joint-highest on the opening day of the event, equalling a record set in 1975 by the US, and matched in 2004 by Europe.
The home team started brilliantly in the opening session when they secured a 4-0 advantage after the morning’s performances.
The US were unable to cut into the deficit in the afternoon session, as Europe won that period 2½ -1½ to extend their lead further.
Viktor Hovland, Jon Rahm and Justin Rose all drained putts on the 18th hole to secure half points for Europe. British duo Matt Fitzpatrick and Rory McIlroy’s 5&3 victory gave McIlroy his first Ryder Cup point.
2022 US Open winner Fitzpatrick contributed an eagle and four birdies, and McIlroy a birdie of his own, as they went six up against Xander Schauffele and Collin Morikawa.
Europe captain Luke Donald told the BBC: "Those putts by Viktor, Jon and Rosie make a huge difference.
"It was sensational, a dream start for us. This morning was an amazing performance by the guys, and this afternoon was tough.
"The US came back, we knew they would. They had a stretch there in the middle where the momentum was turning their way, but man, did we turn it back."
McIlroy added: "The fact that the Americans didn't win a full point was incredible and just shows the heart, grit and determination that the European team has.
"We have a ton of momentum and we'll try to ride the crowd's energy to win both sessions [on Saturday]."
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