Europe-US Ryder Cup rivalry forms outside ropes

There’s another burgeoning Europe vs. United States rivalry at the Ryder Cup. This one is outside the ropes and these teams are singing songs rather than making putts. The event’s super fans are out in force at the Marco Simone club. There’s the Guardians of the Cup in the blue corner.

October 6, 2023 - 3:27 PM

The United States' Collin Morikawa, Justin Thomas and Max Homa celebrate on the 18th green as teammate Patrick Cantlay of Team United States putts to win his match, 1-up, during the fourball Ryder Cup matches at Marco Simone Golf Club on Saturday, Sept. 30, 2023, in Rome. (Patrick Smith/Getty Images/TNS)

GUIDONIA MONTECELIO, Italy (AP) — Outside the ropes, there’s another Europe vs. United States rivalry forming at the Ryder Cup.

These teams are singing songs, not making putts.

In the blue corner, it’s the “Guardians of the Cup” — a group of university pals from Nottingham in central England regaling the European players with playful ditties.

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