Graeme McDowell the hero as Europe win the Ryder Cup
Graeme McDowell was the toast of Europe this afternoon after he won the hole that regained the Ryder Cup.
Graeme McDowell was the toast of Europe this afternoon after he won the hole that regained the Ryder Cup.
The US Open champion beat Hunter Mahan on the 17th green in a thrilling finish to the final match to give Europe victory by 14 and a half to 13 and a half.
McDowell, of Northern Ireland, handed Europe captain Colin Montgomerie a day finish in the event's first ever Monday finish.
But the contest went right to the wire after a rollercoaster afternoon before America's Hunter Mahan conceded the 17th in McDowell to spark jubilant celebrations at Celtic Manor.
McDowell won 3 & 1 to take the Europeans across the finish line.
After weekend rain forced the singles series to be delayed until Monday for the first time in Ryder Cup history, the teams traded blows throughout a thrilling afternoon.
Dustin Johnson recorded the biggest US win, beating Martin Kaymer 6 & 4.
But Europe struck back through an inspired Ian Poulter, who thrashed Matt Kuchar 5 & 4.
Europe looked to be easing to victory but Edoardo Molinari threw away a three-up lead with three to play and halved his match with Rickie Fowler, meaning McDowell had to win to avoid the US retaining the trophy.
