Ryder Cup Miracle: Koepka Slams Rahm's Immature Behavior, Sparks Controversy!

Jon Rahm's extraordinary display at the Ryder Cup on Friday endeared him to the hearts of Europeans, yet his performance did not impress everyone.

In a remarkable turn of events, the Spanish golfer managed to eagle twice in the last three holes, rescuing a miraculous tie for him and his partner Nicolai Højgaard in the afternoon fourballs match. They were up against the formidable duo of world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler and Brooks Koepka. Rahm's earlier foursomes victory also contributed to Europe's commanding five-point lead at the Marco Simone Golf Club.

Upon sinking his birdie putt on the 18th green, European golfer Jon Rahm jubilantly reacts, resulting in a tie for Europe in their afternoon Fourballs match at the illustrious Ryder Cup golf tournament. This thrilling event took place at the Marco Simone Golf Club in Guidonia Montecelio, Italy, on Friday, September 29, 2023. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia)

Gregorio Borgia/AP

Ryder Cup: Europe conjure late magic to prevent US from winning a single match and take dominant day one lead

After Scheffler's impressive birdie at the second-to-last hole seemed to secure Team USA's first point of the tournament, Koepka was left frustrated not only with the outcome but also with Rahm.

"We managed to birdie the 14th, as well as holes 15, 16, 17, and 18. However, we unfortunately lost to two eagles," shared the 33-year-old during a TV interview, according to We.

"While it's tempting to react like Jon Rahm by throwing a tantrum and sulking, we understand that it's just part of the game. We should act maturely and move forward since we are adults."

When asked about the necessary attitude for his team to recover, the five-time major champion seemed to mention the subject again.

"We'll be alright. We're all adults here, we behave like adults," Koepka informed reporters.

"Just got to play and see where it puts you."

Rahm drives from the 18th tee.

Patrick Smith/Getty Images

European captain Luke Donald played it down when quizzed on Koepkas criticisms of Rahms behavior.

"I certainly didnt see any of that," Donald said.

Jon provided tremendous support to Nicolai throughout the day. His remarkable ability to drive the ball down 18 and land it flawlessly on the front of the green, resulting in an eagle and a tied score, truly showcased his immense passion. It came as no surprise to witness Jon's unwavering dedication, as he consistently exemplifies such passion in everything he does.

Donald's American counterpart Zach Johnson, who is currently facing a challenging task of putting an end to a 30-year losing streak for the US on European soil, expressed understanding of Koepka's frustrations while simultaneously commending Rahm's exceptional skill. In a conversation with reporters, Johnson acknowledged that Brooks, along with the rest of the team, including himself, felt frustrated with today's outcome.

"The only thing you most likely couldn't do in that scenario, considering we had two birdie putts, was to inadequately execute the shot. As a result, Rahm skillfully executed his shot, perfectly playing the odds... Tip of the cap. Outstanding putt."

Team Europe celebrate Justin Rose making a crucial putt on the 18th hole.

Keyur Khamar/PGA Tour/Getty Images

Things went from bad to worse for Koepka and Scheffler on Saturday morning as they experienced a devastating defeat at the hands of the dynamic young Scandinavian duo, Viktor Hovland and Ludvig Aberg, during the morning foursomes.

Jon Rahm from Team Europe starts his game on the first hole during the morning foursomes matches of the 2023 Ryder Cup at Marco Simone Golf Club in Rome, Italy.

In an electrifying display of thunderous support, vibrant outfits, and an incredible first tee start, fans brought an explosion of noise and color to the Ryder Cup. Unfortunately for the American duo, they suffered a devastating defeat of 9&7 at the hands of Norway's Hovland and Swedish rookie Aberg. This dynamic European pair showcased their prowess with an impressive seven birdies in just eight holes, securing the largest margin of victory in Ryder Cup history for an 18-hole match, regardless of the format being foursomes or otherwise.

Despite being one of the most in-form players in the game, world No. 4 Hovland found himself up against a formidable opponent in a match-up that featured a five-time major champion and the current world No. 1. Additionally, Hovland's partner, Aberg, is a 23-year-old Ryder Cup debutant who only recently turned professional less than 100 days ago. "We have a strong team," stated Hovland.

"Regardless, I think we couldve met a lot of guys and we wouldve been tough to beat today."