USA Takes 1-Point Lead in Walker Cup Singles at Cypress Point

At the 50th Walker Cup at Cypress Point, Team USA overcame a 1-3 deficit in the morning foursomes to take a 6.5-5.5 lead over Great Britain and Ireland after the singles matches on Day 1. U.S. Amateur champion Mason Howell, an 18-year-old high school senior, played a pivotal role by birdieing both par 3s along the ocean and sinking a 45-foot birdie putt on the iconic 16th hole to secure his victory. World No. 1 Jackson Koivun set the tone by defeating GB&I's top-ranked player, Tyler Weaver, and Jase Summy contributed crucial points including a decisive par putt on the 18th hole. Despite GB&I's strong start in foursomes, winning three of four matches, the U.S. team excelled in singles, capturing 5.5 of 8 points in the afternoon session. The match, held for the first time at Cypress Point since 1981, also featured notable golf figures such as Hal Sutton, Bryson DeChambeau, and Juli Inkster in attendance. The USA aims to retain the Cup on Sunday, needing 13 points total, while GB&I seeks to reclaim it for the first time since 2015.