Europe starts fast, builds 3-point lead on U.S. at Ryder Cup - ESPN

FARMINGDALE, N.Y. — Europe's biggest stars showed up — and the American team's didn't — on the opening day of the 45th Ryder Cup on Friday, which is why the U.S. will have to climb out of another big hole over the final two days at Bethpage Black.

European stars Tommy Fleetwood, Rory McIlroy and Jon Rahm didn't lose a match in the first two sessions, while Scottie Scheffler and Bryson DeChambeau failed to earn a point, allowing the Europeans to take a 5½-2½ lead.

After going 3-1 in the Friday morning foursomes (alternate-shot) matches, the Europeans won two and tied one of the four fourball (best-ball) matches in the afternoon.

«Incredible day,» European team captain Luke Donald said. «To win this morning was huge for us, and we all know how important it is to get off to a good start. We know how strong the U.S. were in foursomes. Guys grinded to win the session again this afternoon. That's another tick in our box, and I'm very happy where we are.»

The deficit would have been worse for the Americans if McIlroy hadn't barely missed an 11½-foot birdie try on the 18th hole of the final fourball match. McIlroy and Ireland's Shane Lowry halved the match with Patrick Cantlay and Sam Burns, who also missed an 11½-foot birdie attempt on 18.

«The boys played really good this afternoon,» American captain Keegan Bradley said. «Europe made a lot of putts. Happy with the way we're playing. Hopefully it'll turn and our putts will go in tomorrow.»

The teams will play the same schedule Saturday, followed by 12 singles matches Sunday.

The Europeans need 14 points to retain the Ryder Cup after their 16½-11½ victory in Rome in 2023. The Americans need 14½ points to take it back.

It won't be easy for the U.S. team. The Europeans have won