How have American and European teams compared in recent Ryder Cups? Additionally, what role does the 2025 edition play in the context of recent Ryder Cup history?
Reflecting on the last three Ryder Cups since 2018, we’ll explore the successes and failures of both teams and consider their skills as they approach Bethpage Black.
2018 Ryder Cup
Le Golf National | Paris, France
The 2018 Ryder Cup marked a pivotal moment in golf history, highlighting a clash of data analytics, perceived American supremacy, and notable American strategical missteps. Examining the event at Le Golf National reveals not just the difference in captaincy effectiveness between teams, but also the evolution of each team’s skill sets over time.
Heading into the event, Team USA was the favorite, boasting 12 of the top 25 players in the Official World Golf Ranking against Team Europe’s eight. Although the Americans held three of the top four spots and three major titleholders, expectations did not guarantee victory, with betting odds placing their chances at 55-60%.
Ultimately, the Americans fell short. Despite winning the morning fourball session 3-1, they were decisively outplayed 4-0 in the afternoon, leading Europe to a commanding 10-6 advantage by Sunday singles. Team Europe finished with a 17.5-10.5 victory, marking the largest Ryder Cup margin since 2006.
2021 Ryder Cup
Whistling Straits | Kohler, Wisconsin
The 2021 Ryder Cup was a stark contrast to 2018, with Americans entering as favorites, holding a 65-70% likelihood of reclaiming the cup. Team USA benefited from a significant talent gap and had a suitable course to their skills under the competent leadership of captain Steve Stricker. In major events leading up to the cup, they had one victory, 19 top 10 finishes, and 26 top 20s, compared to Europe’s one win, eight top 10s, and 14 top 20s.
With six of the eight longest hitters on a distance-friendly course, the U.S. performed exceptionally, concluding with a decisive 19-9 win. Though questions arose about the European side’s strategy, they were simply outmatched on American soil.
2023 Ryder Cup
Marco Simone | Rome, Italy
The 2023 Ryder Cup fell between the polarities of the previous two events. Leading up to this competition, odds were closer to even. The course was set up more impartially than earlier events, revealing a tighter skill disparity. Europe significantly narrowed the talent gap since Whistling Straits.
However, poor preparation hindered the American efforts once more, compounded by questionable decisions from captain Zach Johnson. The Americans arrived in Rome with little time to adjust to the time zone, resulting in an initial overwhelming defeat. By the end of the competition, Europe emerged victorious with a score of 16.5-11.5.
2025 Ryder Cup
Bethpage Black | Farmingdale, New York
As we approach the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, it’s important to consider how this year’s event fits into the recent Ryder Cup narrative. With betting markets giving the American team a 55-60% chance of victory, their talent slightly outweighs Europe’s, even if the gap is not as pronounced as in previous editions.
Historically, Bethpage Black favors distance off the tee. Team USA possesses some advantages in this area, particularly with Bryson DeChambeau among their ranks. Preparation has been more comprehensive on both sides, with Team Europe spending nearly two weeks together before the event, while Team USA has also aimed to foster unity and competitiveness.
With home-course advantage and expected team chemistry, the upcoming Ryder Cup presents an opportunity for an exciting and competitive matchup, marking a significant departure from the dysfunction observed in 2018. The anticipation builds as we look forward to this being one of the most balanced Ryder Cups in a decade.
