Great Britain & Ireland (GB&I) are on the verge of securing the 2025 Team Cup, having extended their lead over Continental Europe to an impressive seven points on day two at Abu Dhabi Golf Resort. Heading into Sunday’s singles matches, GB&I hold a commanding 11-4 advantage and require just two more points to clinch victory. Meanwhile, Continental Europe faces an uphill battle, needing a flawless performance to secure all nine remaining points and retain the title.
Day Two Highlights
- Tommy Fleetwood was the standout performer, continuing his exceptional record in foursomes. Partnering with GB&I captain Justin Rose in the morning, the duo claimed a 2Up win over Continental Europe captain Francesco Molinari and Julien Guerrier. In the afternoon, Fleetwood teamed up with Jordan Smith to earn a 3&2 victory over the same opponents, maintaining his perfect three-for-three record.
Reflecting on his performance, Fleetwood said:
“I’ve got no answer then. It is partners; it is a nice record to have, I guess. But once again, go out with somebody like Jordan, he is literally a perfect foursomes partner. We had the ball in play all day and although at times it was a little bit frustrating when it was generally me that wasn’t making the putts.
But we were just very relentless tee-to-green today, and we played very well on what I thought was a pretty difficult afternoon, really.” - Tom McKibbin, the young Northern Irish talent, also remained undefeated, partnering with Aaron Rai for a dominant 4&3 victory over Rasmus Højgaard and Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen in the morning. In the afternoon, McKibbin joined forces with Matthew Jordan for a 2Up win against Denmark’s Thorbjørn Olesen and Niklas Nørgaard.
- Despite GB&I’s dominance, the French pairing of Romain Langasque and Matthieu Pavon shone for Continental Europe, securing both their foursomes matches. They defeated Laurie Canter and Jordan Smith 3&2 in the morning and overcame Rai and Rose 4&2 in the afternoon, building on their fourball win on Friday.
The Final Stretch
With only the Sunday singles matches remaining, GB&I are on the brink of victory, requiring just two points to claim the Team Cup. For Continental Europe, the challenge is monumental: they must win all nine matches to achieve an unprecedented comeback.
Sunday promises a dramatic conclusion, with GB&I seeking to close out their triumph and Continental Europe fighting to keep their hopes alive.
