The much-anticipated Ryder Cup afternoon pairings were announced following Europe’s strong start in the morning foursomes at Bethpage Black. With the visitors leading 3–1 after the opening session, the afternoon four-ball matches now offer Team USA a chance to fight back and regain momentum on home soil.
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Understanding the Afternoon Format
The afternoon session shifts to four-ball (better ball). In this format, each of the two players on a team plays their own ball, and the lowest score counts for the hole. This allows for more aggressive play and higher chances of birdies, making it one of the most exciting parts of the Ryder Cup.
Confirmed Afternoon Pairings for Day 1
Here are the official Friday afternoon pairings and tee times at Bethpage Black:
| Tee Time (ET) | USA Pairing | Europe Pairing |
|---|---|---|
| 12:25 p.m. | Scottie Scheffler / J.J. Spaun | Jon Rahm / Sepp Straka |
| 12:41 p.m. | Ben Griffin / Bryson DeChambeau | Tommy Fleetwood / Justin Rose |
| 12:57 p.m. | Cameron Young / Justin Thomas | Ludvig Åberg / Rasmus Højgaard |
| 1:13 p.m. | Sam Burns / Patrick Cantlay | Rory McIlroy / Shane Lowry |
Scheffler and Spaun vs Rahm and Straka
World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler returns for the afternoon session, this time paired with J.J. Spaun. After a tough morning, Scheffler will be looking to lead the charge for Team USA. Across from them, Jon Rahm anchors the European side with Sepp Straka, making this one of the most high-profile matches of the day.
Griffin and DeChambeau vs Fleetwood and Rose
Bryson DeChambeau teams up with Ryder Cup rookie Ben Griffin, who makes his debut in the afternoon. The pairing mixes power with fresh energy. On the other side, Tommy Fleetwood and Justin Rose bring experience, chemistry, and calm under pressure, giving Europe a reliable duo.
Young and Thomas vs Åberg and Højgaard
This contest highlights rising stars on both sides. Cameron Young joins forces with Ryder Cup veteran Justin Thomas, who thrives in match play. They face Europe’s young guns Ludvig Åberg and Rasmus Højgaard, a duo quickly becoming fan favorites for their fearless play.
Burns and Cantlay vs McIlroy and Lowry
The final match of the afternoon could prove pivotal. Sam Burns pairs with Patrick Cantlay, a steady and tactical duo. But across from them stand two of Europe’s most passionate competitors: Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry, who bring both skill and intensity to the Ryder Cup stage.
Strategic Decisions Behind the Pairings
Captains on both sides made clear adjustments heading into the afternoon session:
- Team USA: Introduced fresh players like Spaun and Griffin to bring new energy.
- Team Europe: Leaned on proven combinations like Fleetwood/Rose and McIlroy/Lowry for consistency.
- Psychological Edge: Europe’s 3–1 lead allows them to play with less pressure, while the U.S. must take risks to avoid falling further behind.
What’s at Stake in the Afternoon Matches
The four-ball matches are crucial for Team USA. If Europe extends its lead, the mountain to climb over the weekend becomes much steeper. But if the Americans can level the score, the competition resets heading into Saturday.
With Ryder Cup history full of swings and comebacks, these matches could define the entire contest.
Final Thoughts
The Ryder Cup afternoon pairings for Day 1 set the stage for dramatic, high-pressure golf at Bethpage Black. With Europe holding the early advantage, Team USA needs a strong showing to keep the contest close. Every birdie, every putt, and every pairing choice will count as the action unfolds.
Which afternoon duo do you think will deliver the first big point for Team USA? Share your thoughts below and join the debate.