Revolutionizing the Ryder Cup: Unleashing Thunderous Roars, Electrifying First Tee Moments, and Dazzling Fancy Dress – Fans Set the Stage Ablaze!
A vibrant sea of fans, stretching for miles, surges forward with electrifying energy It resembles the exhilarating start of a marathon, rather than ordinary golf spectators This is the captivating allure of the Ryder Cup
A massive crowd - stretching hundreds wide and thousands deep - rapidly dispersing. It resembled the beginning of a city marathon rather than fans making their way to a golf tournament, but that's the distinctive allure of the Ryder Cup.
Supporters from both sides of the Atlantic have flocked in large numbers, adding vibrancy and excitement to the 44th edition of the competition at Rome's Marco Simone Golf Club in Italy. Numerous people patiently waited in line since the early hours of Friday to secure prime spots for witnessing the unfolding drama.
The course grounds saw a burst of excitement when the gates opened at 6:30 a.m. local time. Fans flooded in with cheers and whoops, as captured in a thrilling video shared on X - the social media platform formerly known as Twitter - by organizers. According to Reuters, an estimated 150,000 spectators are anticipated to visit by Sunday.
The first tee grandstand was already packed with spectators before Jon Rahm of Spain hit the tournament's first shot, creating a lively atmosphere as fans performed Team Europe's signature routine - the thunderclap. European vice-captain Nicolas Colsaerts skillfully led the shout-clap-repeat chorus, which was originally popularized by the Iceland men's soccer team during the UEFA European Football Championships in 2016.
A triumphant player from the 2012 European team, the Belgian played a crucial role in energizing the spectators all day long. His task was made even simpler when Team Europe dominated the morning foursomes sessions, achieving a commanding 4-0 lead.
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"The crowds were absolutely incredible today," commented Ludvig Aberg, the Swedish rookie who teamed up with Viktor Hovland to effortlessly defeat Max Homa and Brian Harman.
"The overwhelming support was palpable and that's the key to continue securing points."
Golf - The 2023 Ryder Cup - Marco Simone Golf & Country Club, Rome, Italy - September 29, 2023
Team Europe's Rory McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood celebrate on the 17th green after winning their match during the Foursomes
Phil Noble/Reuters
Europe got off to a dream start in the Ryder Cup, as Fleetwood Mac's performance helped them sweep the opening matches against the US. Even the usually composed Rahm was affected by the electric atmosphere. He and England's Hatton comfortably defeated world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler and Sam Burns, but Rahm confessed to feeling nervous well before the start of the game.
Rahm expressed that the emotional intensity experienced towards the end of a tournament was akin to the feeling he had when he hit his initial warm-up putt at 6:20 a.m. in the dark. This sentiment continued to escalate until they reached the tee box on the first hole. While it was a distinct sensation, Rahm believed that by embracing and savoring it, one could perform exceptionally well in their golf rounds, as they did that day.
European fans were in fine voice on Friday.
In the grandstands, extravagant costumes were the norm. The American attendees proudly displayed their patriotism with outfits adorned with stars and stripes, as well as symbols like the eagle, Statue of Liberty, and a group dressed as Evel Knievel.
From all corners of Europe, flags fluttered proudly, showcasing the diverse representation of countries such as Ireland and Sweden. The continent's full roster was splendidly displayed, harmoniously intertwined with the vibrant Colosseum gladiators paying tribute to the host nation. Additionally, a spirited group clad in wigs and vests honored Rahm's iconic "Rambo" nickname.
US golfer Collin Morikawa passes a group of Team USA fans dressed as Evel Knievel.
Paul Ellis/AFP/Getty Images
For the first time since 1997, Michael Jordan will not be present at the Ryder Cup this week. However, the presence of Novak Djokovic, Gareth Bale, and Carlos Sainz ensured that the viewership remained star-studded. All three of them participated in the All Star match on Thursday, where Djokovic and Bale's team emerged victorious over the Ferrari drivers' side.
