The Ryder Cup might be the biggest team event in golf, but that doesn't stop the players from keeping to the gentlemens side of the game. Down the years there have been a number of great displays of sportsmanship in the fiercness of The Ryder Cup battle
2006: The Americans rally around Clarke
Darren Clarke was Team Europes hero at The K Club in 2006 winning all three of his matches just weeks after the death of his wife, who lost her battle with cancer. It wasn't until he had confirmed victory over Zach Johnson in the Sunday singles thats the 2016 Captain let his emotions out, he was first embraced by his caddie Billy Foster before a number of Americans including their captain Tom Lehman and Tiger Woods also approached the Northern Irishman. Clarke said of this in the aftermath "Tom Lehman sadi some very kind words out there they've (Team USA) been great all week. he (Lehman) led the US tour's prayer service for Heather on the day she was buried."
1969: The Concession
Probably one of the greatest acts of sportsmanship in all sport. The concession in 1969 brought to an end the closest fought match of the decade, Jacklin had a two foot putt to secure the tied match knowing that a tie meant that The RyderCup would stay in American hands Nicklaus conceded the putt. The Golden Bear said to Jacklin "I didn't think you were going to miss that putt, but I didn't want to give you the opportunity" a great gesture from the greatest golfer of all time.
2012- Phil's thumbs up
In 2012 Europe roared back to claim victory at the Mircale of Medinah, but despite being involved in an intense back and forth match with Justin Rose, Mickelson still found time to congratulate his opponent when he produced great golf. The 17th saw 'Lefty' come close to chipping in for a birdie which would have confirmed at least half a point for his team, Rose followed by holing an across green putt for his own birdie to bring the match to all square the American applauded the Englishman as they moved to the 18th.
