By Ryder Cup Digital On September 19, 2025 20:24 UTC
The Ryder Cup is filled with unforgettable moments, dramatic finishes, and historic performances. From clutch comebacks to rare feats, these are the last times 15 notable things happened at golf’s most intense team event.
Whether you’re a seasoned Ryder Cup fan or just diving into the lore, this list captures the moments that define the legacy of the event.
1. Last Hole-in-One
Scott Verplank made the most recent ace in Ryder Cup history during the Sunday singles in 2006 at The K Club, holing out against Padraig Harrington.
2. Last Session Sweep
Team Europe swept the Friday morning Foursomes (4-0) at Marco Simone in 2023, setting the tone early in Rome.
3. Last Ryder Cup Decided on the Final Hole
In one of the most dramatic finishes ever, Martin Kaymer defeated Steve Stricker on the 18th hole at Medinah in 2012, securing a 14½–13½ victory for Team Europe.
4. Last Ryder Cup Ending in a Tie
The 1989 Ryder Cup at The Belfry ended in a 14-14 tie, allowing Europe to retain the Cup.
5. Last Victory on Foreign Soil
Europe’s most recent win on American soil came at Medinah in 2012, when they completed a stunning comeback to win 14½–13½.
6. Last Comeback Win on Final Day
Also in 2012, Europe trailed 10-6 entering Sunday singles at Medinah, but stormed back to win the session 8½–3½ and the Ryder Cup.
7. Last Envelope Player
In 1993 at The Belfry, Lanny Wadkins was the last designated envelope player for the U.S. Sam Torrance was unable to play for Europe due to injury, activating the envelope rule.
8. Last Monday Finish
The 2010 Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor finished on a Monday due to rain delays—marking the only Monday finish in Ryder Cup history.
9. Last Playing Captain
The legendary Arnold Palmer served as the last playing captain in 1963, going 4-2-0 at East Lake Golf Club.
10. Last World No. 1 to Lose a Singles Match
Jon Rahm, ranked No. 1 in the Official World Golf Ranking, lost 4&3 to Scottie Scheffler in Sunday singles at Whistling Straits in 2021.
11. Last Player to Overcome a 4-Hole Deficit in Singles
In 2002, David Toms rallied from 5 down to defeat Sergio Garcia 1-up—one of the greatest comebacks in singles history.
12. Last Pairing to Overcome a 4-Hole Deficit in Foursomes
In 2008, Henrik Stenson and Oliver Wilson came back from 4 down to beat Phil Mickelson and Anthony Kim 2&1.
13. Last Pairing to Overcome a 3-Hole Deficit in Four-ball
Also in 2008, Phil Mickelson and Anthony Kim returned the favor later that week, rallying from 3 down to defeat Padraig Harrington and Graeme McDowell 2-up.
14. Last Captain’s Pick to Win 4+ Matches
Thomas Pieters went a perfect 4-0-0 for Team Europe as a captain’s pick in 2016, chosen by Darren Clarke.
15. Last Team to Win Every Session
The United States dominated at Whistling Straits in 2021, winning all five sessions en route to a commanding 19–9 victory.