ESPN Staff September 29, 2023, 3:00 PM ET3 Minute Read
Hamilton: Remarkable start for Europe at the Ryder Cup
Tom Hamilton reflects on the opening morning of the Ryder Cup as Europe takes a 4-0 lead over the USA.
Team US and Team Europe face off on day one of the Ryder Cup at Marco Simone Golf & Country Club.
There are many storylines, but one stands out from the crowd: America’s 30-year period without a win on European soil. Europe has won six consecutive victories outside the United States, with the Americans’ last victory abroad coming in September 1993 at the Belfry in Warwickshire, England.
Read more: Looking back at 30 years of misery at the US Ryder Cup as the team tries to end the drought
Team US has gotten off to a bit of a rocky start as Europe rattled off four straight wins in the first round, but there is still time for the USA to come back and there is plenty to see on and off the field with both teams winning over Rome.
Here are some of the best moments from the Ryder Cup:
Hovland birdies 18
Viktor Hovland completed his first round in epic fashion.
Famous fans
Novak Djokovic and Gareth Bale were there to watch the tournament.
I just missed it
Jon Rahm came very close to a hole-in-one on this shot.
We are all fitnesses
Matt Fitzpatrick was suspended for the first round, and Rory McIlroy was feeling somewhat comfortable.
Rookie mistake
Nicolai Højgaard almost forgot two important tools he needed for his Ryder Cup debut: his putter and his pass.
On the track, however, Højgaard looks like a seasoned veteran.
Hovland’s ace
A hole-in-one in the practice round for Viktor Hovland? Easy work.
Patriotic poses
American golfers and fans alike are decked out in the country’s colors. Earlier this week, Sam Burns debuted his patriotic new look.
When you are in Rome
The Spanish Steps served as a picturesque backdrop in the run-up to the tournament.
Different tastes
Viktor Hovland listens to metal music to prepare for a match… and considering his teammates’ reactions, that makes him unique at the Ryder Cup.
Red carpet appearance
The golfers and their significant others were on point fashion-wise at the pre-tournament gala.
Viktor Hovland, who is single, decided to keep European vice-captain Jose Maria Olazabal company instead.
.