USA’s Ryder ricket? Spreading the Love

As if there’s not enough heartache for fans of American professional golf, given yet another deflating Ryder Cup performance by their heroes, here’s a sobering thought to make them even sicker: Had Mark James done a more thoughtful job with his singles lineup in 1999 and had Luke Donald not been sidelined in 2008 and captain Nick Faldo been more in tune with things, we very likely could be at nine straight European wins in the biennial competition.

That’s right, America has won twice since 1993, both times helped as much by Europe’s captain as its own skill. But those are the only tastes of victory in nearly 20 years, which is downright discouraging because an event the Americans used to dominate is suddenly one they are unable to win, Europe having captured 10 of the last 14 in all different manners. They’ve won at home. They’ve won on the road. They’ve won close ones. They’ve won walk-overs. And now? Give the Euros credit for pulling off the greatest comeback in cup history, winning 8½ of 12 singles points last Sunday at Medinah to overcome a 10-6 deficit and beat the hosts 14½-13½. Yes, the Americans also overcame a 10-6 deficit in 1999, but this rally by the Euros was more impressive, being on foreign soil.

So, pass the antacids to those who govern the Ryder Cup on this side of the pond — officials with the PGA of America. Oh, and if you could pass along any answers as to why the Americans have turned into Europe’s punching bag, they’ll take them, too. Mail them to PGA of America headquarters in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.