Ryder Cup 2010: USA Comes Up Short in a Wild Monday Comeback Bid

This was certainly a Ryder Cup for the ages. 

The Europeans, who led eight out of 12 singles matches early Monday, had it come down to the wire, with Irishman Graeme McDowell coming through in the end.

Team USA was down three full points at the start of Monday's play.  Captain Corey Pavin knew his team had a tall task ahead of it, especially playing at Celtic Manor overseas on European soil.

The United States fought until the end, but it just wasn't enough, as Hunter Mahan couldn't halve McDowell in the last match. This Ryder Cup was lost on Sunday, but it was nearly won in heroic fashion on Monday.

What did we exactly learn from this Ryder Cup?

1.  Rickie Fowler is going to be one of the best golfers of the next two decades.  At only age 21, he showed tremendous poise and toughness in making birdies on the final four holes to earn a crucial halve against Molinari.

2.  Tiger Woods' swing is starting to come into rare form. 

He was an amazing 9-under through 15 holes on Monday.  Although his team failed to win the Cup, Tiger Woods has to be eager for the 2011 PGA Tour season to start.

3.  Stewart Cink could have won the cup for the United States. 

He was one up on McIllroy on 16 and failed to convert crucial birdie putts on 17 and 18.  His putter let him down and cost his team in the end.

4.  Ian Poulter is an absolute beast.  Matt Kuchar was no match for Poulter, who remains undefeated in Singles play at the Ryder Cup.

5.  Steve Stricker came up with a big leadoff win over Lee Westwood.  Aside from his one lopsided match in alternate shot, he performed well under pressure.

6.  Colin Montgomerie outmatched Corey Pavin.  His strategy and thought process outworked the Americans when all was said and done.

7.  Home course advantage was a difference-maker.  The crowd was loud and noticeable when Europe made their big charge.

Medinah will host the 2012 Ryder Cup, where the United States will look to even the score.  They have struggled on European soil, as they have now lost four straight overseas.