Ryder Cup Four-Ball Format Explained: Saturday Afternoon Pairings and Strategy

The Ryder Cup four-ball format takes center stage on Saturday afternoon at Bethpage Black, where Team Europe leads Team USA 8.5–3.5 after dominating the morning foursomes. With four more points up for grabs, captains Luke Donald and Keegan Bradley have named their pairings for this crucial session.

This format is a fan favorite for its aggressive play and dramatic scoring swings. Each golfer plays their own ball, and the team’s best score counts for each hole. It’s a chance for birdies and eagles to shift momentum quickly.

Saturday Afternoon Four-Ball Matches and What They Mean

The afternoon session features four matches with big names on both sides:

Match 1 (12:25 p.m. ET) — Justin Thomas & Cameron Young (USA) vs. Rory McIlroy & Shane Lowry (EUR)

Match 2 (12:41 p.m. ET) — Scottie Scheffler & Bryson DeChambeau (USA) vs. Tommy Fleetwood & Justin Rose (EUR)

Match 3 (12:57 p.m. ET) — Xander Schauffele & JJ Spaun (USA) vs. Jon Rahm & Sepp Straka (EUR)

Match 4 (1:13 p.m. ET) — Sam Burns & Patrick Cantlay (USA) vs. Viktor Hovland & Matt Fitzpatrick (EUR)

Four-ball, sometimes called “best ball,” is different from foursomes. Each golfer plays their own ball from tee to green. The lowest individual score on each hole counts for the team. A birdie by one player can win the hole even if his partner makes bogey.

This format rewards pairing players with complementary skills. Big hitters often pair with accurate putters, while experienced players can calm younger partners. According to reports from BBC and Reuters, European captain Luke Donald is leaning on chemistry and past success, while U.S. captain Keegan Bradley is mixing experienced stars with Ryder Cup rookies like JJ Spaun.

The afternoon session is vital. Europe can move closer to retaining the cup if they continue their momentum. The U.S. needs a strong response to stay alive before Sunday singles.

Strategy and Broader Impact on the Ryder Cup

Four-ball often produces more birdies than foursomes. Players can swing freely knowing their partner may cover with a safe par. Fans often see more risk-taking and spectacular shots. Teams also plan tee orders carefully, choosing who goes first based on hole layout and player confidence.

Momentum can shift fast in four-ball. A hot putter or fearless rookie can swing a match. The U.S. must find energy from players like Justin Thomas and Patrick Cantlay, while Europe counts on Rory McIlroy and Jon Rahm to lead by example.

The Ryder Cup four-ball format remains one of the event’s most thrilling spectacles. Saturday afternoon’s matches will set the tone for Sunday’s singles and could decide whether Europe keeps its edge or the U.S. mounts a comeback.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the Ryder Cup four-ball format?

It’s a team match play format where each golfer plays their own ball. The team’s lowest score on each hole counts.

Q2: How is four-ball different from foursomes?

In four-ball, each player plays their own ball. In foursomes, teammates alternate shots using one ball.

Q3: Why is the Saturday afternoon session important?

It’s the last team session before Sunday singles. Momentum here can decide the Ryder Cup outcome.

Q4: Who are the key players in four-ball?

Rory McIlroy and Jon Rahm lead Europe, while Justin Thomas and Scottie Scheffler headline for Team USA.

Q5: Can rookies make an impact in four-ball?

Yes. Rookies like JJ Spaun can play aggressively, knowing their partner can cover mistakes.