In 1985, after a wait of 28 years, it finally happened.
The Ryder Cup trophy was prized from the Americans' grasp by a European team boasting the likes of Masters champion Bernhard Langer, Open winner Sandy Lyle, Ian Woosnam and Nick Faldo.
The Americans had started well on the first day, claiming three of the four foursomes with Lanny Wadkins and Raymond Floyd impressing in two wins.
But on the second day, the pendulum began to swing towards the Europeans. Seve Ballesteros was in defiant mood, claiming his first two points playing alongside compatriot Manuel Pinero.
Europe seized the initiative, establishing a platform for their remarkable triumph. Craig Stadler and Curtis Strange - two-up with two to play against Bernhard Langer and Sandy Lyle - appeared certain to win their game.
Stadler, however, missed a three-foot putt on the last to hand their opponents an unlikely half, and with it the momentum in the match.
Europe went into the final day leading 9-7 and full of confidence. Stadler played bravely to beat Ian Woosnam, but overall Europe dominated the singles, taking seven-and-a-half to the Americans' four-and-a-half points.
Pinero, Lyle, Langer and the inexperienced Paul Way all won their rubbers and sensed an historic victory.
It was down to Sam Torrance to secure the triumph. The Scot was facing US Open champion Andy North and fell three holes behind.
Torrance fought back until it was neck-and-neck going to the 18th and, after North's ball found water, Torrance birdied with an 18-footer.
The emotional Scot, who had been in tears before the putt, raised his arms in a signal which said the Ryder Cup was back in European hands.