American hopes of retaining the Ryder Cup lay in Roman ruins after Europe delivered a clean sweep in the opening session for the first time. As shadows lengthened, hopes grew for those in United States colours. The combined actions of Viktor Hovland, Jon Rahm and Justin Rose kept Zach Johnson’s beleaguered team at arm’s length.
Europe head into day two of the 44th Ryder Cup with a 6½–1½ advantage; not insurmountable but enough to trigger mild panic in the US locker room. Optimism had turned to despair. History is on Europe’s side; 10 of the 12 teams who have led by three or more after day one have lifted the Ryder Cup.
