A Foursomes Specialist: Analyzing Collin Morikawa's Mixed Week for Team USA
He was once again a dominant force in the alternate-shot format, but Collin Morikawa's mixed results at Bethpage highlight a larger strategic question for Team USA. We break down his week.
FARMINGDALE, N.Y. – Collin Morikawa's performance at the 2025 Ryder Cup was a tale of two formats. The two-time major champion once again proved he is arguably the best Foursomes (alternate shot) player in the world, while struggling to find his footing in the birdie-fest of Fourball, finishing with a 2-2-0 record.
In the demanding alternate-shot format, where precision iron play is paramount, Morikawa was flawless. He and his partners went undefeated, looking completely in sync and showcasing the ball-striking masterclass that defines his game. His accuracy and control make him the perfect partner for this strategic format.
However, in his lone Fourball match, Morikawa's steady game was not enough to keep pace with the European birdie barrage. In the Sunday Singles, he fought valiantly against Tommy Fleetwood but was ultimately outmatched by the Englishman's consistent play.
The week highlights a strategic question for future U.S. captains: how best to deploy a specialist like Morikawa? While his strength in foursomes is an undeniable asset, ensuring he is positioned for success across all formats will be key. For this Ryder Cup player, Bethpage was a reminder of both his unique strengths and the relentless demands of the competition.
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