Europe Leads Ryder Cup 5.5-2.5 with McIlroy’s Key Role in New Jersey

Rory McIlroy has emerged as a central and polarizing figure in the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, playing a critical role in Team Europe's strong start against the U.S. team. After helping Europe take the opening session 3-1 alongside Tommy Fleetwood, McIlroy energized fans with consecutive birdie putts in the afternoon four-ball match with Shane Lowry, igniting celebrations and leading Europe to a 2-up lead. Despite the hostile and vocal American crowd, McIlroy embraced the pressure and even made an emotional middle-finger gesture toward the fans, highlighting the intense atmosphere of the competition on U.S. soil. His performance has pushed his Ryder Cup record to 6-1-0 in recent matches, marking the best stretch of his career, though he admitted disappointment at missing a final putt that could have won a match outright. The Americans, led by Captain Keegan Bradley, struggled to keep pace, with some players like Scottie Scheffler yet to find their form, potentially allowing Europe to maintain a substantial lead heading into the weekend. McIlroy’s confident prediction before the tournament that Europe would win on the road is looking increasingly plausible as the event unfolds.