Matt Fitzpatrick weighs in on Bryson DeChambeau’s behaviour during their Ryder Cup clash

DeChambeau went on to put together a remarkable fightback. He took the eighth and ninth holes, but even by the 14th tee, Fitzpatrick was still holding a three-up lead.

Over the next four holes, though, the California native won three to bring the match level. And while it finished all square after they halved the 18th, it felt like DeChambeau had left an opportunity on the table following a poor approach into the final green.

The 32-year-old is a divisive figure in golf circles. Just a day before, he had been involved in a heated exchange with Justin Rose. But when asked about their match, Fitzpatrick did not have any complaints about playing against him.

“He was fine. Bryson’s character, he’s got a lot of energy. You get in that environment with the home crowd, I think it was very helpful to get off to a great start.

“To be up so early was helpful at that point just to keep the crowd not really on his side as such. Was kind of much more tame. But no issues with Bryson. I knew what he was about, and that’s what excites the fans over there and that’s great.

“There were no issues. It was obviously a good match. I wish it ended a little bit differently, but in the end it was a half-point.”

Matt Fitzpatrick and Rory McIlroy have a laugh at Bryson DeChambeau during Bethpage celebrations

DeChambeau picked up his only win of the week alongside Cameron Young, who helped him to beat Fitzpatrick and Ludvig Aberg on Saturday morning.

He did not quite have the impact he wanted on his return to the Ryder Cup. Bradley used him five times, but he picked up only 1.5 points.

During Sunday’s celebrations, Fitzpatrick had a bit of fun at DeChambeau’s expense. Footage showed him urging Rory McIlroy to drape the European flag over DeChambeau’s name.

Some might see it as unnecessary, especially since the two-time US Open champion was praised by teammates for his commitment. But given everything that had happened during the week, it was not surprising that some European players were happy to let things slide.