If my quick calculations are correct, in the 8 Ryder Cups played since 2008, the US has 113 points and Europe has 111. Putting aside everything else about behavior, likeability, etc., it seems to me that the outcomes are largely explained by one group of players happening to outplay another pretty closely matched group of players over a small sample size of golf that includes formats they rarely play.
Carl, I think it’s even closer than that; just a THREE point difference (in Europe’s favor) since the competition expanded in 1979. A three point difference out of almost SIX HUNDRED points.
Despite another hand-wringing thread, there’s nothing wrong with the Ryder Cup; nothing. Of course the passion spills over at times, as human beings will do, but there is also still great sportsmanship, like Fowler conceding Fleetwood’s last putt in the clinching match, which I don’t think has even been mentioned here. There is a huge home course advantage, and it may be growing, but that’s true at all levels of golf. There isn’t anything wrong with the selection process for players and captains, or any of the other silliness that has been complained about here. It’s a great competition that is all but equal over the last 40+ years; what more could a golf fan ask for?
Players consider making either team a career highlight, as do those chosen to be captains. They play their hearts out, even when it’s basically hopeless, as was the case in yesterday’s singles matches. It’s compelling to watch, ven when it’s basically hopeless. Seeing the #1 player in the world with tears in his eyes Saturday tells you all you need to know, and we’ve seen that many times before, from both sides. It’s great theater, and I’d suggest that if you can’t appreciate that, you just shouldn’t watch.
Regardless of their strengths or weaknesses as human beings, I’ve always loved watching the best in the world do what they do. Jordan, Maddux, Brady, Woods, Bolt, Messi, and on and on; I’m grateful to get the chance to see them as they flash across the sky for a few years. I love watching Jon Rahm play golf, as I do McIlroy, Scheffler, Thomas, Hovland, and all the rest. I love the drama and the passion and the skill, and I accept their very human failings, just as I hope mine are ignored by my friends.