September 22, 2008

PING pro Hunter Mahan’s Ryder Cup debut proved more memorable than possibly imagined as he led the U.S. team with 3.5 points in five matches as the Americans regained the trophy for the first time since 1999. Mahan was 2-0-3 for the week—tying a record for most points by a captain’s pick. His singles match, which he halved with Europe’s Paul Casey, included six birdies and was highlighted by one from 60 feet on the 17th hole.

One of only two players on the U.S. team to play in all five matches at Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, the 26-year-old Texas resident teamed up with Ryder Cup veteran Justin Leonard to go 2-0-1 in two foursome and one four-ball match. He also partnered with Phil Mickelson in the Saturday afternoon four-balls, birdieing two of the last four holes to secure a ½ point.

Playing the new S57 irons and an iWi D66 putter, Mahan relied on strong iron play and timely putting to help the United States team to its biggest margin of victory since 1981. He also used a Rapture driver and hybrid, a G10 3-wood and an EYE2 L-wedge.

PING pros Lee Westwood (0-2-2) and Miguel Angel Jimenez (0-2-1) represented Europe in the 37th playing of the event.