Sport

Saturday Showdown: U.S. Team Stages a Comeback with an 8-6 Lead Over the Internationals!

2024-09-29

Author: Ken Lee

U.S. Team Dominates Four-ball Sessions

In an electrifying Saturday morning at the Presidents Cup, the U.S. team found their rhythm again, dominating the Four-ball sessions with a 3-1 score, pushing the overall lead to 8-6 against the Internationals.

Morning Victories

The morning kicked off with Scottie Scheffler and Collin Morikawa claiming the first victory for Team USA, defeating the duo of Adam Scott and Taylor Pendrith. However, the Internationals quickly retaliated when Tom Kim and Si Woo Kim overwhelmed Keegan Bradley and Wyndham Clark with a commanding 4-and-3 victory.

The excitement didn't stop there. Tony Finau and Xander Schauffele contributed another point for the U.S. team, overcoming Corey Conners and Mackenzie Hughes with a 3-and-2 victory. Finally, Patrick Cantlay and Sam Burns finished the morning session on a high note with a close 2-and-1 triumph over the International pair of Hideki Matsuyama and Sungjae Im.

Intense Competition

The competition was intense; the Internationals made the first strike with Scott’s impressive 8-foot birdie on the par-4 third hole. However, the Americans responded with consecutive birdies at the fourth and fifth. The Internationals led at the turn 1-up but were unable to maintain their momentum, culminating in Pendrith and Scott ultimately securing their match against Homa and Harman after a hard-fought battle.

Afternoon Matches

As the afternoon rolled in, Morikawa and Burns showcased incredible skill and determination, rallying from an early 2-down deficit to secure a nail-biting win against Conners and Hughes. The match was a roller-coaster ride of birdies and dramatic swings, culminating in Morikawa sinking a crucial 4-foot par putt to clinch the match after Hughes missed a 12-foot chance for par.

In a thrilling finish, Cantlay and Schauffele edged out Si Woo Kim and Tom Kim as darkness loomed over Royal Montreal. Cantlay, exhibiting nerves of steel, nailed a winning 17-foot birdie on the final hole, boosting their record to an impressive 7-6-0 in international competitions.

Key Performances

Notably, Matsuyama and Im initially led their match against Scheffler and Henley, taking a commanding 3-up lead through the first five holes. However, a monumental comeback from the American duo saw them draw level by the 12th hole before clinching the match decisively, showcasing their resilience and teamwork.

Finau and Schauffele also demonstrated their remarkable synergy, achieving an impressive 3-and-2 win over Conners and Hughes, and continuing the momentum for Team USA. And in a standout performance, the dynamic duo of Si Woo Kim and Tom Kim set the tone for the Internationals by carding nine birdies in their match, solidifying a significant point.

Looking Ahead

As the day concluded, Team USA walked away with an encouraging 11-7 lead heading into the crucial Sunday Singles. Will they carry this momentum to victory, or can the Internationals stage an unforgettable comeback? Stay tuned for the thrilling conclusion!