Europe’s Jon Rahm got the 45th Ryder Cup underway in a frenzied atmosphere on the first tee at Bethpage Black on Friday. On a day when United States President Donald Trump was due to visit, Europe hoped to make a strong start in their defence of the trophy.

Rahm was playing alongside Tyrrell Hatton in the opening foursomes match against Bryson DeChambeau and Justin Thomas of the US. The hosts were backed by the majority in a lively crowd, but it was Rahm who had the honour of playing the first shot at 7:10 am local time (12:10 pm UK).

The Spaniard played a nervy opener before DeChambeau launched the host’s challenge with a superb straight drive, followed by a birdie putt to win the hole.

Prior to the start, DeChambeau and Thomas, carrying a US flag, had entered the arena to a huge roar from the crowd gathered in the 5,000-capacity grandstand at the first tee. US captain Keegan Bradley had earlier encouraged fans to raise the volume, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.

There was also an early taste of the potential hostility to come as European linchpin Rory McIlroy was booed when shown practising on the large screen.

The opening match was set to be followed by three more in the morning session. In match two, Ludvig Aberg and Matt Fitzpatrick faced world number one Scottie Scheffler and Russell Henley. Europe’s strong pairing of world number two McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood, who both won their foursomes outings in 2023, took on Collin Morikawa and Harris English. Robert MacIntyre and Viktor Hovland completed the morning proceedings against Xander Schauffele and Patrick Cantlay.

Trump’s visit prompted a huge increase in security measures, and he was expected to arrive at Bethpage prior to the start of the afternoon fourballs session. Gates opened at 5 am to allow the crowd ample time to enter the course, with many heading straight to the first tee to soak up the electric atmosphere.
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