FARMINGDALE, N.Y. -- Europe's biggest stars showed up -- and the American team's didn't -- on the opening day of the 45th Ryder Cup on Friday, which is why the U.S. will have to climb out of another big hole over the final two days at Bethpage Black.
European stars Tommy Fleetwood , Rory McIlroy and Jon Rahm didn't lose a match in the first two sessions, while Scottie Scheffler and Bryson DeChambeau failed to earn a point, allowing the Europeans to take a 5 ½-2 ½ lead.
After going 3-1 in the Friday morning foursomes (alternate-shot) matches, the Europeans won two and tied one of the four fourball (best-ball) matches in the afternoon.
"Incredible day," European team captain Luke Donald said. "To win this morning was huge for us, and we all know how important it is to get off