Much had been written about the frosty welcome Europe’s players could expect from the local fans, but after what American player Collin Morikawa called a “tame” opening to the week, he hoped for “absolute chaos” on Friday.
There were glimpses of that as the final two matches of the day went down the 18th and the home support tried to will their players over the line.
But Europe claimed 1½ points from those two rubbers to end a scintillating day three points ahead.
“It’s been a great day for Europe,” was McIlroy’s verdict, despite him missing a 12-footer to win the final match out on the course.
US captain Keegan Bradley was keen to put a positive spin on his side securing a half point in that match. “That was big,” he said.
“We’ve only played 28% of the points. This is first quarter. We’ve still got three quarters to go. I’ve got a lot of faith in my boys.”
The American fans’ faith will be tested on Saturday though.
Thousands had excitedly scurried through the entrance gates before sunrise to claim a spot in the huge 5,000-capacity grandstand on the first tee. They were left trudging away from the 18th in dismay as the sun set over the Long Island course.
World number one Scottie Scheffler, who won two majors in 2025, finished a chastening day winless, as did their talisman Bryson DeChambeau.
Europe’s Jon Rahm was the common denominator. The Spaniard, a wildcard pick, repaid the faith shown in him by captain Donald by leading from the front in both sessions and delivering two points.
After the morning atmosphere had been stifled by European blue dominating the scoreboard – with their three points all being won by big margins in the space of 11 minutes – the afternoon matches were livelier both inside and outside the ropes.
But frustration boiled over for a few home fans, who turned on Scheffler during his afternoon defeat alongside US Open champion JJ Spaun. “Come on Scottie show up,” said one, while another shouted: “You’re the world number one, show us what you can do.”
The European players were also targeted with McIlroy appearing to react and make a gesture towards the spectators as he walked off the 11th green.
Donald said he was unaware of the incident, but added: “I was proud of the guys, how they handled the situation, a tough environment.”