Emotions routinely run rampant at the Ryder Cup. The world’s best golfers are thrust into uncomfortable situations with nothing on the line except for personal and national pride. That back-against-the-ropes mentality, especially for those playing on the away side, tend to bring out the best celebrations that we see all year.
The opening day of the 2016 Ryder Cup didn’t disappoint. From the early-morning U.S. sweep, to Europe’s charge back in the afternoon, Friday from Hazeltine had a little bit of everything, including heckling from fans and some pretty solid responses from two high-profile Europeans.
First, during the morning four ball, Sergio Garcia sank a bomb from just off the green and asked the assembled fans whether or not that one went in.
What’s that, it’s in? Yup, it’s in.
Sergio is doing Sergio things for #TeamEurope pic.twitter.com/oB9pxSaA2J
— Golf Channel (@GolfChannel) September 30, 2016
Garcia and his partner, Martin Kaymer, couldn’t find the cup very much going forward during the morning session, falling to Jimmy Walker and Zach Johnson, 4&2.
Later in the day, and with their backs against the wall, Europe came out firing in the afternoon fourball. Rory McIlroy lended his hand to the madness by eagling the 16th hole to close out Dustin Johnson and Matt Kuchar. The 4-time major champ then let out a pre-determined celebration.
The Ryder Cup is just the best.
Here’s a snapshot of some of what you may have missed from Friday in Minnesota.
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