The United States continued its dominance of the Presidents Cup with an impressive 18½-11½ win over the International team in Canada. Team USA led 11-7 before Sunday’s 12 singles matches, needing just 4½ points on the final day to defend their title. Xander Schauffele set the Americans on their way with a 4&3 victory over Australian Jason Day in the opening contest. Team USA secured additional full points through Russell Henley and Patrick Cantlay, leaving them close to victory despite world No.1 Scottie Scheffler being beaten by Hideki Matsuyama.
Canada’s Corey Conners claimed a significant victory of the day as he thrashed Tony Finau 5&3, but the United States moved closer to victory when Keegan Bradley won four of his first five holes on the back nine to go three up with three to play. Sam Burns claimed a share of the spoils with Tom Kim, with Bradley then surviving a late wobble to defeat Si Woo Kim on the final hole and take the US to the 15.5 points required with five matches still on the course. Bradley, who will be the US captain for next year’s Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, expressed his excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to play and win in the Presidents Cup.
Patrick Cantlay and Xander Schauffele played crucial roles in helping Team USA secure its 10th consecutive win in the Presidents Cup. Both players remained unbeaten in their four matches, showcasing their talent and teamwork on the international stage. Sahith Theegala tied his match against Byeong Hun An, while Collin Morikawa beat Adam Scott 2&1 and Max Homa brushed aside Mackenzie Hughes 2&1 in the bottom match. Despite suffering another heavy defeat, the Internationals impressed in large spells, particularly when they won all five foursomes matches on Friday after losing all five four balls on Thursday.
International captain Mike Weir made a questionable decision to use the same eight players in both sets of four balls and foursomes on Saturday, resulting in a 6-2 win for the USA and an 11-7 lead in the match. Throughout the tournament, the International team showed flashes of their potential and talent, but ultimately fell short against the formidable US team. The Presidents Cup once again highlighted the strength and depth of American golf, with players like Cantlay, Schauffele, and Bradley showcasing their skills and determination in the competition. The victory for Team USA further solidified their status as a dominant force in international golf competitions.
