The foundations for the winning score of 18½ to 9 ½ points was laid on Friday and Saturday but yesterday's session of mano a mano singles play produced unimagined humiliation for the American visitors who picked up just 3½ points out of a possible 12.
The story of the day was Darren Clarke, who lost his wife Heather to cancer six weeks ago. He stepped up and produced not just a wonderful round of golf yesterday, but some of the most touching moments the competition has seen in its long history. Embraced warmly and sincerely by American captain Tom Lehman after his win on the 16th green, Clarke let the emotions of a difficult week flow out. "The emotion was huge," said Clarke afterwards. "I've been delighted to be picked and it has been fantastic to be part of this team. The support from everyone has been very, very touching."
Europe's win marks a seachange in Ryder Cup fortunes. Having seen American domination for many decades Europe have now won five of the last six playings of the event and the size of yesterday's winning margin equalled the record set by Europe at Oakland Hills, Detroit two years ago. Apart from the European victory there were plenty of clouds and not too much silver lining to the week. The failure of the US to produce a pulse let alone a fight on the final day was bad news for those who hoped the competition would prompt a tourism bonus. By the time the east coast of America got up for breakfast the competition was all but over and Ireland's showcase weekly hour of sunshine is unlikely to have been beamed into many homes.