The American fightback during Sunday’s Ryder Cup singles was something to really get behind but in the end, it only masked what was a poor week overall for Keegan Bradley’s men.
Despite their rally on Sunday, Team America looked nowhere near as solid a unit as the Europeans, who once again had the inspiration of Luke Donald behind them as they won their second Ryder Cup running.
For Keegan Bradley, the opening two days of the tournament were nothing short of abysmal as his team were hammered in both the fourballs and foursomes.
However, while the team element of the tournament was not the best for the USA, there were at least some positives in terms of individuals.
Indeed, for three American players, there was plenty to be proud of.
The three American players who can take heart from their Ryder Cup performances
While there were some poor performances from big names like Scottie Scheffler and even Justin Thomas until the singles came around, a few of the American team can emerge with credit.
Firstly, Xander Schauffele deserves enormous praise for how he played. Fresh off becoming a new Dad and also in poor form leading into the tournament, he produced and won three points for his team, including a hammering of Jon Rahm on Sunday.
Secondly, Cameron Young was also excellent as a Ryder Cup rookie.
Young won 6&5 alongside Justin Thomas on the Friday, before winning 4&2 on Saturday alongside Bryson DeChambeau. He lost in the second session on Saturday, but found his form again to hold off Justin Rose in the singles.
Finally, another player to emerge with credit is US Open winner, J.J. Spaun.
The gritty American wasn’t called upon until Friday afternoon when he lost alongside Scottie Scheffler but in the Saturday four-ball he produced alongside Xander Schauffele, before winning his singles match against Sepp Straka 2&1.
Ultimately, these three players combined for eight of the USA’s 13 points and can at least walk away with an iota of credit.
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Team USA have something to build on for the future as their rookies shine
There’s a lot to not like about the USA performance at Bethpage but then there is also a lot to take away as a positive as well.
The singles performances show that America do have some of the best talent in the world and also, they have a raft of younger talent emerging for the future.
Cam Young has more or less booked his seat to Ireland, while J.J. Spaun will likely be there as well.
Indeed, even Russell Henley played superbly well despite not getting the points he might have wanted.
Add those to the experience and quality that the likes of Scheffler, DeChambeau and Schauffele have, then the US team won’t be far off being right come 2027.
Crucially, they have to get the team element right but if they can, then this new wave of talent can be more than a match for Europe at Adare Manor.
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