Comeback kings honour Seve

Martin Kaymer proved the unlikely hero for Europe last night as Jose Maria Olazabal’s side staged a remarkable and record comeback from 10-6 down overnight to retain the Ryder Cup on a dramatic night in Chicago.

The day had begun with Rory McIlroy avoiding embarrassment at the first tee to deliver victory on the 17th green as the world number one helped Europe stage the unprecedented fightback on foreign soil but it was Kaymer who clinched the victory on the 18th hole over Steve Stricker that took the Europeans to the magic 14-point mark that meant they retain the trophy for another two years.

It got even better still, as with the celebrations already under way, Tiger Woods missed a three-foot putt to halve his match with Francesco Molinari at the 18th and give Europe a stunning 14.5-13.5 win few thought was possible 24 hours earlier.