Deja P.u.

On sodden Irish turf, the golf division of the booming European Union won the Ryder Cup for the fifth time in six meetings. The victors dominated the day with 12 players who refer to matches as games. The twelvesome included three native sons, five Brits, two hug-happy Spaniards and two Swedes, shepherded by a Welshman who looks like your grandmother and who filled out lineup cards like Joe Torre.

Singles Smackdown
What used to be a U.S. specialty is now a Euro domain

[This article contains a table. Please see hardcopy of magazine or PDF.]

GOATS & HEROES

GOATS
PGA of America, for its method of selecting the team. In other sports coaches pick all their players.

David Toms (right) and Jim Furyk had to get ahead early in their matches for the U.S. to have a chance at a comeback.

The Oddballs Had Garc�a, Harrington and Karlsson won, the Euros could have gone unbeaten in singles for the first time.

HEROES
Colin Montgomerie, the ancient warrior who, carrying the burden of unfulfilled career expectations, now has a 6-0-2 record in Ryder Cup singles.

Amy Mickelson, who at the closing ceremonies walked in with her husband on one arm and Darren Clarke on the other.

Bill Clinton, for strolling among the American players, who likely voted against him, showing golf isn't just for Republicans.

Slights & Grievances