Americans Surge Ahead in Presidents Cup After Fog Delay

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ICARO Media Group
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29/09/2024 19h03

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Scottie Scheffler and Patrick Cantlay played pivotal roles in securing key victories for the United States, propelling their team to an 8-6 lead in the Presidents Cup. Despite the day starting with a thick fog delay at Royal Montreal, the U.S. team capitalized on critical moments to regain their momentum after being shut out earlier.

As the day unfolded, the International Team’s Captain, Mike Weir, kept his squad consistent by sending out previously successful Four-ball teams. However, several top players, including Jason Day, Min Woo Lee, Christiaan Bezuidenhout, and Byeong Hun An, were sidelined throughout Saturday’s matches.

Among the highlights was Tom Kim, who once again provided a much-needed lift for the International Team. Kim, teaming up with Si Woo Kim, secured the only Four-ball win for the Internationals in the morning by decisively defeating Keegan Bradley and Wyndham Clark, 4 and 3.

On the American side, Tony Finau and Xander Schauffele showcased a strong performance by overcoming the Canadian pair of Corey Conners and Mackenzie Hughes with a 3-and-2 victory. The rest of the matches hinged on crucial moments and tight competition.

Collin Morikawa delivered a significant early birdie for the U.S., but Adam Scott quickly responded for the Internationals. However, drama ensued on the 14th hole when Taylor Pendrith’s misstep in the water seemed advantageously poised for Morikawa, only for Scott to rally with a birdie that leveled the match. Scheffler’s clutch birdie putts on the 16th and final holes eventually secured a pivotal win for the Americans.

In another intense match, Cantlay and partner Sam Burns were consistently matched by Sungjae Im. Cantlay’s exceptional chip for an eagle on the 12th gave the U.S. a lead, and he continued his strong play with crucial putts on the 15th and 16th holes. This effort ensured the Americans stayed ahead, ultimately closing the match when Hideki Matsuyama missed a key birdie putt.

The Presidents Cup has witnessed a series of unprecedented shutouts, with both the U.S. and International teams taking turns to dominate. Despite the foggy start, Saturday’s play concluded just in time, setting the stage for Sunday’s highly anticipated Singles matches.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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