The Background
The European team, captained by Colin Montgomerie, held a three point lead heading into the final day singles at Celtic Manor.
For the first time in the history of the competition the final day had to be played out on the Monday due to torrential rain that left running water on the fairways.
The Scene
The United States team fought back early thanks to victories from Steve Stricker, Dustin Johnson, Jeff Overton, Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson.
Zach Johnson’s 3&2 victory over Padraig Harrington then brought the scores level and left all eyes on the anchor match between Graeme McDowell and Hunter Mahan.
With the 16th green packed with fans, all eyes were on the Northern Irishman who rolled in a 15-foot birdie putt to take the tie to dormie with two to play.
Mahan then fatted a chip from the side of a packed 17th green and conceded the hole with McDowell taking a 3&1 victory as Europe secured the Ryder Cup.
The Legacy
The victory meant that Europe had won the competition six times since the United States’ victory at the Belfry in 1993.
That run would be extended to eight times as Jose Maria Olazabel’s team pulled off the “Miracle of Medinah” and Paul McGinley guided Europe to victory at Gleneagles.
Played by NCG: Royal Lytham & St Annes
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