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7 Things We Learned From This Year’s Ryder Cup
The United States clinched the 2021 Ryder Cup on Sunday after rookie Collin Morikawa secured the final half-point to get to a 19-9 victory, which is the largest margin of victory in Ryder Cup history since the 28-point format came about. Read that again! It is not a typo…
It’s also the first time since 1979 and 1983 that Team USA won back-to-back home Ryder Cups after winning in 2016 at Hazeltine. The Americans lost in 2018 in France and seven of the last 10 Ryder Cups against Europe, so this historic & dominant victory just may have changed the tide in the rivalry.
Here are our top 7 takeaways from this year’s Ryder Cup
Spanish Armada is Real
A big part of Ryder Cup history for Europe has been the play of several Spanish golfers. Starting with the legendary Seve Ballesteros and later Jose Maria Olazabal. Now, Jon Rahm and Sergio Garcia seem to have assumed that role. Rahm & Garcia were near unstoppable as a team this past week at Whistling Straights. Sergio became the all-time leader in matches won at the Ryder Cup.
He secured his 24th career match victory (passing Faldo with 23), however, I bet if you were to ask Sergio, he would call that a hollow victory. Rahm, the reigning world #1, secured 3.5 points in his 5 matches. For the most part… they were the lone bright spot for the Euros this year.
Rookies Rout
6! That’s right count em’…6 rookies were on the US Ryder Cup team this year. AND they demonstrated that a changing of the guard is on the horizon if not already onshore. Really, if I am being honest, they showed up in a HUGE way. I was apprehensive that our US team could hang with the veterans on the Euro squad. Boy was I wrong. Not only did they hang, they broke records!
Records that encompassed teams with names like Tiger, Duval, Phil, etc… The six rookies mark the most on one U.S. team since 2008, when the U.S. won at Valhalla Country Club. Four of our 2021 team rookies headed into Sunday with unbeaten records: Collin Morikawa (3-0-0), Xander Schauffele (3-0-0), Patrick Cantlay (2-0-1), and Scheffler (1-0-1). Scheffler and Morikawa were the only two rookies who went undefeated in their Ryder Cup play, and they arguably had the two most important victories on Sunday.
The young talent on the American side was simply too tough and too long for the veteran European team. It was an absolute onslaught! Not to mention that this was one of the youngest American Ryder Cup teams ever, with an average age of just 29 years old. The Americans didn’t lose a session for the first time in 44 years. They had the best team on paper. They played even better on grass.
The home field advantage was evident from the get-go
Lets be real, I found myself longing for the chants of “Ole’…Ole’ Ole’ Ole’…Ole’…Ole’”. That atmosphere creates such a buzz and seemed to be missing this year. With that, the US squad possessed a substantial home-field advantage. The sea of red that fills the galleries every time the United States hosts the Ryder Cup had far fewer European blue dots than usual this year.
“You only have to look around and all the grandstands are red,” Europe’s Ian Poulter said. “Everything that you look at, the fans, 98% are obviously going to be U.S. fans this week.”
WHY: Pandemic-related travel restrictions gave the U.S. a far bigger edge in fan support than the home team normally receives. European residents were not permitted to fly directly to the United States due to the pandemic. The U.S. announced 5 days before the event that it would allow foreigners to fly into the country if they have proof of vaccination and a negative COVID-19 test. But here’s the rub… those changes don’t take effect until November.
That meant fans living in Europe who wanted to watch the Ryder Cup in person had to take indirect routes. For instance, if you live in England, you would have to fly into Mexico and spend two weeks there. Then travel from Mexico to Wisconsin. Call me crazy, but as much as I love my squad, I am not sure that would be in the cards for me!
Brooks Koepka goes crazy, curses at Ryder Cup rules officials
Even while piling up points and producing one of its best days in recent Ryder Cup history, the American team’s performance was marred by a couple of salty moments of questionable behavior on Saturday at Whistling Straits.
Brooks turned into a proverbial “Karen” on two rules officials, cursing at them on the 15th hole during his Saturday morning foursome match alongside Daniel Berger against Spaniards Jon Rahm and Sergio Garcia.
The incident occurred with the Brooks & Berger 1-down with 4 holes to play. Berger’s errant second shot landed in a bunker to the right of the fairway. When Koepka, who was hitting next, arrived and surveyed the lie he brought in a rules official to ask for free relief. Koepka argued that there was a drain in front of the ball that he said would interfere with his swing. To be fair it did appear to be some unusual ground conditions.
“I don’t think it’s going to interfere with the area of your intended swing,” said David Price, the rules official.
“You don’t think my club might hit right there?” Koepka said, pointing downward. “Have you ever seen me hit a ball? There was a root that far down a couple of weeks ago.’’
Brooks was heard saying prior to the shot “I don’t physically see how you can make a swing and not at some point have this impact or this impact your club,”
“If I break my wrist, this is on [expletive] both of you.” He dropped the F-Bomb!
The officials ultimately disagreed, and Brooks had to hit the shot as it lied. He striped it! It hit the green and it rolled up to 25 feet.
Here’s the deal Brooksy, you may have had an argument. Even Sergio was on sight and seemed to agree that relief might be warranted. He then spit out his water when he heard the interaction between the officials and Brooks. Bottom line, the official ruling was given. Cussing them out will not help the situation. Right or wrong! Hit the shot or take an unplayable. Simple as that.
Spieth hit arguably one of, if not the greatest, shot on the 17th I have ever seen
It didn’t take long for Whistling Straits to produce a signature shot in the Ryder Cup. Unfortunately for Jordan and JT, it didn’t help them in a 3-up loss to Jon Rahm and Sergio Garcia.
Here’s the shot in his words: “It was kind of one of those shots you practice as a kid for fun,” Spieth said of his shot from a wildly uneven lie that sent him careening down a hill and nearly into taking a plunge into Lake Michigan.”
Two holes down with two to play, Thomas hit his tee shot on the par-3 17th hole to the right of the green, only to watch as it bounced left and shot across the green and down a nearly vertical slope toward Lake Michigan.
The ball ended up lodged in deep rough on a ridge about 10 feet high. Spieth studied it a long time before pulling out a wedge and taking a wild swing at the ball, which somehow plopped onto the green about five feet from the hole.
The momentum from Spieth’s swing sent him falling backward down the slope, and he nearly ran backward as he tried to steady himself before going too far and ending up in the lake.
“I don’t think I exaggerated that fall,” Spieth said. “Once I started moving I had to keep moving until I found a flat spot.”
If you were under a rock this weekend or somehow didn’t see the miraculous shot…you have to see it with your own eyes to believe it! I would give him 5 large buckets of balls and I would lay 5-1 odds he doesn’t get another even remotely that close!
Bryson did not disappoint
Before the Ryder Cup, we were not sure if we were team Brooks or team Bryson. Brooks is a terminator and Bryson is a character. After watching this weekend, I have to admit, Team Bryson closed the gap significantly. It was awesome when he drove the green on #1 and eagled it during the Sunday singles match.
Yeah, he took down the Ryder Cup GOAT – Sergio Garcia. But the #6 tee is what ultimately won us over. Bryson and his caddie were trying to decide between driver and 3-wood. He was worried he would drive the ball over the green on the 350-yard hole. That’s right, he had to back off the driver and decided instead to hammer a 3 metal on a 350-yard hole. When he puts his driver back in the bag, the crowd started to murmur.
Bryson then loudly said – “Easy Guys, I am still going for the green. Calm down!” Awesome! Arguably the biggest round of his life and he is cracking jokes with the crowd. Golf needs more guys like him. Sure…guys like Brooks, DJ, Xander, and Collin are great golfers but they can be a little predictable/boring! Thanks, Bryson. I think it’s safe to say that you won me and millions of other golfers over this past weekend.
DJ settles the score at whistling straights
Dustin Johnson joins an incredibly exclusive group of players who have taken five wins out of five at a Ryder Cup (100% match victory!) DJ had been named as the ‘elder statesman’ in the USA camp, being the oldest player in the team at 37-years-old.
However, after his 1-up victory against Paul Casey, Johnson joined Francesco Molinari and Larry Nelson as the only players in the modern Ryder Cup era to go 5-0.
In 1967, Arnold Palmer and Gardner Dickinson also achieved 5-0, but that was against Team Great Britain & Ireland.
Dustin was making the short stroll from the 10th green to the 11th tee at Whistling Straits when the galleries on either side of the narrow path began roaring: “MVP! MVP! MVP!” They were not wrong!
Eyes straight ahead, impassive as ever (Bulletin), Johnson deserved the chants but barely acknowledged them. Somewhere deep down, though, he had to be smiling. This is what people mean when they say revenge is best served cold.
On the very same course where 11 years earlier Johnson lost a shot at his first major championship, he won all five of the matches he played and led a young U.S. Ryder Cup team to its most lopsided victory ever over Europe. That the oldest player on the squad also turned out to be the best…made it just that much sweeter. Way to go DJ!
In the ever-evolving world of professional golf, few rivalries capture the contrast of style and substance like Scottie Scheffler versus Bryson DeChambeau. While both have claimed massive wins and global headlines, their paths to success and how they play the game couldn’t be more different. Here’s a deep dive into their strengths, weaknesses, career highlights, and what makes each stand out in today’s competitive landscape.
Backgrounds and Styles
Scottie Scheffler
The Dallas-born Scheffler embodies a classic, workmanlike approach to golf. Known for his calm demeanor, efficient swing, and remarkable consistency, Scheffler has risen to the top of the world rankings with little flash but elite-level substance. His game is built on balance, precision, and one of the most reliable tee-to-green performances the sport has seen in years.
Bryson DeChambeau
Nicknamed “The Scientist,” DeChambeau has taken an analytical and experimental approach to the game. He’s redefined physical fitness in golf, adding serious bulk to increase driving distance. Known for using single-length irons and obsessing over launch angles and biomechanics, Bryson is a true disruptor. His aggressive style polarizes fans and analysts, but it undeniably commands attention.
Strengths
Scheffler
- Tee-to-Green Excellence: Leads the PGA Tour in strokes gained tee-to-green.
- Consistency: Rarely misses cuts and often finishes in the top 10.
- Short Game: Exceptional touch and creativity around the greens.
- Mental Game: Composed under pressure; rarely rattled.
DeChambeau
- Driving Distance: One of the longest hitters in the game; regularly over 320 yards.
- Innovation: Willing to take unconventional approaches for marginal gains.
- Power Play: Dominates par 5s and shortens long courses with his length.
- Confidence: Self-belief and boldness to attempt shots most won’t.
Weaknesses
Scheffler
- Putting: Historically his weakest stat, though he’s shown improvement.
- Media Presence: More reserved; lacks the big personality that moves the needle for fans and brands.
DeChambeau
- Inconsistency: Can be volatile—either dominating or struggling.
- Course Management: Aggressiveness sometimes leads to trouble.
- Injury Risk: His physical transformation has come with some health setbacks.
Biggest Wins
Scottie Scheffler
- The Masters (2022)
- The Players Championship (2023)
- Multiple WGC and Signature Events
As of 2025, Scheffler has claimed over 10 PGA Tour titles and continues to rack up top finishes in majors and elite events.
Bryson DeChambeau
- U.S. Open (2020)
- Arnold Palmer Invitational (2021)
- Multiple LIV Golf Wins
DeChambeau made headlines by joining LIV Golf, where he’s claimed multiple high-stakes victories, including a team championship and a dominant individual LIV win in 2023.
Career Earnings
Scheffler:
Over $50 million in PGA Tour earnings alone, with additional income from endorsements like Nike, TaylorMade, and Rolex.
DeChambeau:
Estimated $60–$80 million, largely boosted by a reported $100+ million LIV Golf contract and additional prize money. His endorsements have shifted due to his controversial LIV move, but he remains a marketable figure.
Similarities
Both are U.S.-born and played collegiate golf (Scheffler at Texas, DeChambeau at SMU).
Each has reached the top 10 in the Official World Golf Ranking.
Both have won majors and represented the U.S. in Ryder Cups.
Each has shown a willingness to be different—Scheffler through quiet dominance, DeChambeau through outspoken innovation.
Key Differences
| Trait | Scottie Scheffler | Bryson DeChambeau |
|---|---|---|
| Playing Style | Traditional, consistent | Aggressive, experimental |
| Physical Transformation | Minimal | Extreme (bulk and strength) |
| Equipment | Standard setup | Single-length irons |
| Public Persona | Reserved, grounded | Outspoken, controversial |
| Tour Affiliation | PGA Tour loyalist | LIV Golf convert |
Final Thoughts
Scheffler and DeChambeau represent two archetypes in modern golf: one a quiet technician, the other a showman scientist. Whether you admire Scottie’s stoic efficiency or Bryson’s radical reinvention, both are changing the game in their own way. And in a sport where individuality meets performance, there’s room—and demand—for both.
If you’ve ever walked off the 18th green thinking, “It’s not me, it’s the clubs,” well… you might be half right.
As a PGA Professional who’s watched thousands of swings—from scratch players to first-timers—I can tell you that one of the most overlooked keys to better golf is proper club fitting. Not just buying shiny new sticks off the rack, but taking the time to find clubs that are tailored to your swing.
You don’t need a Tour card to get Tour-level precision. Let’s talk about why club fitting matters, what it changes, and how it can truly transform your game from the tee box to the final putt.
The Myth of “Good Enough”
“I’m not good enough to be fit for clubs.”
That’s the most common thing I hear—and it’s completely backwards.
High-handicap golfers have even more to gain from club fitting than low-handicappers. Why? Because the equipment can help you fix ball flight, optimize distance, reduce mis-hits, and build confidence—all without having to reinvent your swing.
Off-the-rack clubs are designed to fit “average” specs. But no two golfers are the same. Length, lie angle, shaft flex, grip size—these all play a massive role in how the club interacts with your body and the ground.
What Happens in a Proper Club Fitting?
At its core, a fitting session is about matching the equipment to your natural swing—not forcing you to swing a certain way to fit the gear.
Here’s what a proper club fitting includes:
1. Interview & Swing Assessment
A certified fitter (or PGA pro like myself) will ask about your current set, ball flight tendencies, common misses, and goals. Then we’ll watch you hit some shots to get a baseline.
2. Launch Monitor Data
Using tools like TrackMan or Foresight, we’ll capture numbers like:
- Ball speed
- Launch angle
- Spin rate
- Club path and face angle
- Carry distance and dispersion
These numbers don’t lie—and they tell us what to tweak.
3. Testing Head & Shaft Combinations
You’ll hit several combinations of club heads and shafts to find what gives you the best performance. One degree of loft or a different shaft flex can make a huge difference.
4. Dialing In Lie Angle & Length
Lie angle affects directional control—too upright, and you might pull shots left; too flat, and you’ll miss right. Club length affects control, consistency, and strike location.
5. Grip Size & Feel
Don’t underestimate this. A grip that’s too thick or too thin can alter your grip pressure and release pattern.
Real Results—Backed by Data
One of my students recently went through a full iron fitting. He was using clubs he bought off the rack 10 years ago. His miss was a push-fade, and he struggled with distance control.
After 90 minutes, a combination of slightly shorter shafts, softer flex, and two degrees more upright lie changed everything. His dispersion tightened by 40%, and he gained an average of 12 yards per club. More importantly—his confidence skyrocketed.
And it wasn’t just him. Across the board, golfers who get fitted:
- Gain more consistent contact
- Reduce directional misses
- Improve distance gapping
- Hit more greens in regulation
- Score better, without changing their swing
The Mental Game Boost
Here’s a secret: it’s not just about numbers. Fitted clubs give you confidence. When you know the tool in your hand is built for you, you swing freer, commit more fully, and stop second-guessing every shot.
Confidence leads to better swings. Better swings lead to better results. It’s a cycle—and it starts with the right equipment.
What About Cost?
Yes, a proper fitting might cost $75–$150 depending on where you go. And yes, custom-fit clubs may be slightly more than what you’d pay at a big box store.
But if you’re already spending time and money on golf, wouldn’t you want to get the most out of it?
A one-time investment in fitting can save you years of frustration—and possibly hundreds spent chasing fixes that won’t work with ill-fitting clubs.
Look—I’ve given thousands of lessons in my career, and nothing changes a golfer’s outlook faster than finally swinging clubs that work with them, not against them.
Whether you’re a 5 handicap trying to fine-tune yardages or a 25 handicap tired of slicing your driver, a proper club fitting can absolutely be a game changer.
You don’t need a new swing—you just need the right tools.
So before you spend another dollar on swing gadgets or tip videos, find your local PGA professional or certified fitter and book a session. Your game (and your sanity) will thank you.
Want more ways to play better without starting over?
Visit ClickItGolf.com every week for practical golf improvement tips, equipment reviews, betting insights, and advice from golfers who live the game every day.
Blog
Zurich Classic 2025: Betting & Fantasy Insights from Kelly Hodgeson
Rory McIlroy returns to the Zurich Classic with Shane Lowry as favorites, but in this unique team event, betting and fantasy success comes down to smart picks and hidden value—here’s how to play it.
The Zurich Classic of New Orleans returns this week, offering a unique team format that challenges both bettors and fantasy players alike. As someone who enjoys the thrill of wagering and the strategy of fantasy golf, I’ve taken a close look at this year’s field to provide insights that could help you make informed decisions.
Understanding the Format
The Zurich Classic is the PGA Tour’s only team event, featuring 80 two-man teams competing over four rounds:
- Rounds 1 & 3: Best Ball (Four-Ball)
- Rounds 2 & 4: Alternate Shot (Foursomes)
This format emphasizes team chemistry and strategy, making it distinct from traditional stroke play events.
Defending champions Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry enter the tournament as favorites, with odds around +350 to +360 across various sportsbooks. Their victory last year and McIlroy’s recent Masters win contribute to their favored status.
Betting Consideration: While their form is impressive, the low odds may not offer substantial value. In team events with unpredictable dynamics, it’s often prudent to seek teams with higher potential returns.
Teams to Watch
Several pairings present intriguing opportunities:
- Billy Horschel & Tom Hoge (+2200): Horschel’s history at TPC Louisiana, including a previous win, combined with Hoge’s recent top-20 finishes, make them a formidable duo.
- Thomas Detry & Robert MacIntyre (+1800): This European pair has shown consistency, with Detry’s earlier victory this season and MacIntyre’s solid performances leading up to the Masters.
- Patrick Fishburn & Zac Blair (+8000): As longshots, their fourth-place finish last year and recent form suggest they could surprise the field again.
Fantasy Golf Insights
For those setting fantasy lineups, consider the following:
- Nick Taylor & Adam Hadwin: Their past success at TPC Louisiana, including a second-place finish in 2023, indicates strong course compatibility.
- Davis Riley & Nick Hardy: Winners in 2023, their chemistry and experience in this format could translate into valuable fantasy points.
- Alex & Matt Fitzpatrick: The Fitzpatrick brothers have shown steady improvement, with a T11 finish last year, making them a reliable mid-tier option.
Strategic Betting Tips
- Value Over Favorites: In a format prone to variability, consider teams with odds of +1800 or higher that exhibit strong recent form and synergy.
- Monitor Course History: Teams with a track record at TPC Louisiana may have an edge, especially in navigating the unique team dynamics.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on weather conditions and any last-minute team changes, as these can significantly impact performance.
As the tournament unfolds, the combination of strategic betting and informed fantasy selections can enhance your engagement with the Zurich Classic. Remember to play responsibly and enjoy the unique challenges this team event presents.
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Scheffler vs. DeChambeau: A Tale of Two Golf Giants
Why Proper Club Fitting Is the Real Game Changer
Zurich Classic 2025: Betting & Fantasy Insights from Kelly Hodgeson
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