Europe holds on to win thrilling Ryder Cup

NEWPORT, WALES -- Europe has reclaimed the Ryder Cup, winning a thriller that went down to the final singles match.

The Americans rallied from a three-point deficit to tie the score, bringing the title down to the 12th match. But U.S. Open champion Graeme McDowell made a clutch birdie putt at the 16th and was conceded his par putt at No. 17. Hunter Mahan flubbed a chip shot, then missed a last-gasp putt from off the green to save par.

The Europeans won 14 1/2-13 1/2 to reclaim the cup won by the Americans at Valhalla two years ago.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP's earlier story is below.

NEWPORT, Wales (AP) - The Ryder Cup has come down to the final match thanks to some clutch putting by 21-year-old Rickie Fowler.

The youngest American won the final three holes Monday against Europe's Edoardo Molinari to halve their match, winning the 17th hole with a 15-foot birdie and the 18th with an 18-footer.

Phil Mickelson knocked off Peter Hanson and Zach Johnson defeated Padraig Harrington, evening the score at 13 1/2 with only one match on the course: Graeme McDowell vs. Hunter Mahan.

McDowell is 1 up with three holes left and must win for Europe to claim the cup. If Mahan can pull out a half-point, the U.S. will improbably take the trophy back home with a 14-14 tie.