United States has prevailed on the decisive day and has taken the 28th edition of the Arnold Palmer Cup by a score of 32.5 to 27.5
The tournament that pits the best American university amateurs against those from the rest of the world was decided in an exciting session of individual matches. The American team has stormed the Lahinch Golf Club to retain the crown and win the second consecutive edition. Since 2018, the U.S. had not won on hostile territory.
Although the final score shows a difference of five points, the result has been very close throughout the day with changes in the initiative on both sides.
The day started with all forces equal at 18 points. The International team took the lead thanks to a great Josele Ballester who took the inaugural match of the day by a comfortable 4&2 against Michael La Sasso. The team from the rest of the world actually took the first three matches of the day. The scoreboard turned green. However, a great American reaction led by the world’s Number One amateur, Gordon Sargeant began to turn the situation around. The international team tried to react, but in a flash the visiting team took five consecutive points and a draw. Two up for the Yankees.
The International team returned to restore the tie with victories from Mexican Santi de la Fuente and our Paula Martin. At that time, the halfway point of the final day was exceeded and everything remained equal. It was at that moment when the American armada revved up, gained momentum and never looked back. The European team barely scored 3.5 points in the last twelve matches. Julia Lopez finally conceded by 1UP against Latanna Stone in a match that was inconsequential as the American team had sealed the victory a few minutes earlier.
With this result, the United States confirms its second consecutive victory. Since the tournament in 2018 became mixed and Europe opened its doors to the rest of the countries, the competition grows and grows without stopping. In these seven editions, the United States has won four and the International team 3. The next edition is played on American soil and from now on the International team is preparing for next year’s vendetta at Congaree Golf Club, South Carolina.
