The final countdown to the Ryder Cup got under way on Monday with US golfers sharing a quiet moment on Bethpage Black's first tee as Europe's players donned salmon-colored outfits in a nostalgic nod to their first win on American soil.

The build-up to the biennial team showdown, which tees off on Friday, took an emotional turn under the watchful gaze of US captain Keegan Bradley and Europe counterpart Luke Donald.

Bradley gathered his players on the first tee before quiet, empty stands for a rendition of the US national anthem, a contemplative moment compared to the raucous songs and chants and screams set for Friday's opening matches.

"It's really powerful to be on that first tee without the crowds," Bradley said. "Every second the guys are together and can have a powerful moment, it b

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