Ryder Cup: US own Day 1

Shebogyan (US), September 25

The Americans haven’t opened with a lead this large in the Ryder Cup since Jack Nicklaus and Lee Trevino were playing, and before Tiger Woods was even born.

That didn’t seem to be big enough to satisfy US captain Steve Stricker.

Dustin Johnson and Xander Schauffele each won two matches, Bryson DeChambeau smashed a drive that had everyone talking and the Americans were relentless Friday at Whistling Straits in losing only one match to build a 6-2 lead.

“It’s a great start. We are happy,” Stricker said. “But my message to the guys is tomorrow is a new day.”

For Europe, Rory McIlroy never made it to the 16th hole losing both his matches on the opening day for the first time. The lone bright spot was Jon Rahm, winning in foursomes with Sergio Garcia and keeping Europe in a tight four-ball match long enough. — AP