Ryder Cup atmosphere at electric high at Hazeltine

Sep 30, 2016; Chaska, MN, USA; Martin Kaymer of Germany plays a shot from a bunker on the second hole in the afternoon four-ball matches during the 41st Ryder Cup at Hazeltine National Golf Club. Mandatory Credit: Rob Schumacher-USA TODAY Sports

CHASKA, Minnesota (Reuters) - Thunderous roars cut through the chilly morning mist at a packed Hazeltine National layout and a touching talisman at the first tee seemed to inspire the U.S. Ryder Cup team to a brilliant start on Friday.

Tens of thousands of fans were in place by the 7:30 a.m. start to the 41st Ryder Cup to cheer an American side intent on beating Europe, winners of three in a row in the biennial match play event and eight of the last 10 competitions.