Europe has retained golf’s Ryder Cup, easily defeating the United States for its eighth victory in the last 10 times in the biennial event.

The 12-man European team, a collection of the continent’s best professional golfers, held a commanding four-point lead heading into Sunday’s decisive singles matches at the Gleneagles course in Scotland, and added to its margin, finishing ahead 16 1/2 to 11 1/2.

The Europeans won five matches on Sunday, the U.S. four, and three ended in ties.

With a handful of golfers yet to finish on the hilly, manicured course, Welsh golfer Jamie Donaldson won his match over American Keegan Bradley to give Europe the deciding point it needed to keep the cup.

Donaldson exulted in the victory.

“It’s been an unbelievable week. I’ve had so much support. The crowds have been immense. It’s a wonderful feeling,” said Donaldson.
…