US Wins Ryder Cup to End Europe's Streak

The Americans didn't need a miracle putt or even the best player in the world to reclaim the Ryder Cup from Europe today for the first time since 1999. The United States won 16 1/2-11 1/2, its largest margin of victory since 1981. Kenny Perry, the 48-year-old Kentucky local who felt this week would make or break his career, was part of an early push that swung momentum toward the Americans.

Then came fellow Kentuckian J.B. Holmes, blasting drives over the trees to birdie his last two holes and position the United States for a victory it felt was overdue. The Ryder Cup was clinched with a handshake when Miguel Angel Jimenez conceded a short par putt to Jim Furyk, giving the Americans the 14 1/2 points they needed to take the 17-inch (44-centimeter) gold chalice.