Europe surged to a comprehensive victory in the 2014 Ryder Cup after a string of strong performances in the Sunday singles.

Heading into the final session with a 10-6 lead – thanks to a 3.5-0.5 victory in the Saturday foursomes – Paul McGinley’s men were never really threatened.

The Americans started fast, but Rory McIlroy and Martin Kaymer moved 4up in their respective matches early on to quell even the most indistinguishable American hope.

And, when McDowell started to turn things around in the top match and Justin Rose battled back from 4down against Hunter Mahan, it was a question of when, not if.

McDowell saw off Spieth 2&1 minutes before McIlroy – who made seven birdies and an eagle in his first 12 holes – defeated Rickie Fowler 5&4.

Some 10 minutes later, Rose won the 18th to halve his match with Mahan and Kaymer chipped in for eagle on 16 to defeat Watson, taking the Europeans to 13.5 points.

Half an hour later, rookie Jamie Donaldson played the shot of his life on the 15th, stiffing his wedge to see off Keegan Bradley and secure a famous European victory.

McIlroy celebrates on the 14th hole after defeating Jordan Spieth

Wins for McIlroy, McDowell and Kaymer, and a half from Rose, took the score to 13.5-7

Kaymer acknowledges the crowd on the 16th hole

Sergio Garcia is reduced to tears walking down the 17th fairway

Patrick Reed made quite the impression with his Poulter-esque displays of emotion

Jamie Donaldson secured the Ryder Cup with a 5&3 victory over Keegan Bradley

The Welshman is mobbed by the press after his win

Paul McGinley congratulates Donaldson, who recorded 3 points en debut

The celebrations were underway.

The winning captain

Captain McGinley gets a soaking

Victorious Team Europe