FARMINGDALE, NY (AP) — The Ryder Cup opened with moments of inspiration on a quiet Monday ahead of a chaotic week in golf. Americans gathered on the first tee at dawn, tears in their eyes, while Europe prepared to seek a rare road victory. U.S. captain Keegan Bradley gathered his entire team on the first tee before the gates opened, with no fans in the massive stands that will be packed with flag-waving fans on Friday.
Chris Mascali, a New York City firefighter whose father died in the September 11 attacks, addressed the team. Mascali wore his father Joe Mascali's uniform and helmet, which now reside in the U.S. team room. Bryan Robinson of FDNY Ladder 16 sang the national anthem while a large screen showed highlights from Ryder Cup history.
“I’ve had this vision for a year,” Bradley said. “Being there and seeing how excited the kids were was a truly special moment for our team.” The Americans solemnly crossed the bridge from the first teeing grounds to the practice area, where they played 18 holes on the Black Course.
Challenges for Europe
The European team spent two days at Bethpage Black last week and then dispersed, some to homes in the U.S. and others playing on some of Long Island's finest courses, before returning to Bethpage to face what they hope will be a formidable challenge. Since the Ryder Cup began in 1927, the Americans have only lost at home four times.
European captain Luke Donald had his team wear salmon-colored sweaters, a subtle reminder of what can be achieved. This was the color the European team wore in 1987 when they stunned the Americans at Muirfield Village, winning their first Ryder Cup away from home. Since then, Europe has won three more times on American soil, most recently 13 years ago, known as the “Miracle at Medinah” for their Sunday comeback.
"That motivates the lads, it shows that it can be done, and that we're here to try again," Donald said. Europe is coming off a resounding victory at the Marco Simone Stadium and retains 11 of the 12 players who participated in Italy's matches in 2023, with Rasmus Hojgaard being the only exception.
“It’s always important to unite around something,” Donald said. “History, our unity, and celebrating what we’ve accomplished in the past are really important. This will be a difficult challenge.”
Preparations for the competition
There weren't many surprises in the way Bradley grouped his three four-player groups for the only full practice round they'll play this week. Justin Thomas and Cameron Young were paired together, just as they were at the Procore Championship two weeks ago in Napa, California. Ben Griffin, one of four Ryder Cup rookies, played with Bryson DeChambeau, who was not in Napa due to his participation in LIV Golf.
Scottie Scheffler joined Russell Henley, who formed a strong partnership in last year's Presidents Cup at Royal Montreal, along with US Open champion JJ Spaun and Harris English. The latter group included Patrick Cantlay and Xander Schauffele, partners in most team matches over the past six years, along with Sam Burns and Collin Morikawa, who won a fourball match at Marco Simone in the last Ryder Cup.
The captains are good friends and share the same opinion about the Ryder Cup. Despite the tension, both are looking forward to enjoying the week, not knowing if they'll get another chance in the future. Bradley, who participated in two Ryder Cups, most recently in 2014, hadn't returned until he was named captain last year. He felt that excitement as his team gathered on the first tee to listen to Mascali.
“It was a powerful moment,” Bradley said. “Looking around and seeing all the kids so emotionally involved was special. A lot of people have worked hard to get to this point in their lives. Sometimes in your life and career, it’s important to reflect on what’s happening around you. I think one of my biggest regrets in my career was not enjoying things more. This morning, the kids were really enjoying the moment, and that was a beautiful thing.”
