Gonzalo Fernandez-Castano predicted the EurAsia Cup would be the “next big thing” as the inaugural contest ended in a thrilling 10-10 draw after Asia threatened to produce a victory to rival Europe’s ‘Miracle at Medinah’ in the 2012 Ryder Cup.
Thongchai Jaidee’s side were whitewashed 5-0 in Thursday’s fourballs and trailed 7-3 going into Saturday’s 10 singles matches, leaving Europe needing just three and a half points for victory.
But Jaidee kickstarted a stunning fightback by beating Ryder Cup hero Graeme McDowell 3&2 and after five further wins for Asia, the entire contest came down to the match between Fernandez-Castano and Japan’s Hideto Tanihara.
Fernandez-Castano eagled the par-five 16th to get back on level terms before Tanihara saved par from a greenside bunker on the 17th to set up a nerve-wracking finish on the last.
Neither player was able to find a decisive birdie and after Fernandez-Castano held his nerve to hole out for par, he conceded Tanihara’s shorter putt to ensure a tie.
The Spaniard said: “I had the feeling yesterday it could be down to me. I knew the Asian team would come out fighting and that’s exactly what they did. I think a tie is a very fair result considering what a great comeback they had.
“I’m happy with the way I performed under pressure. This is the most nervous I have ever been. This is going to be the next big thing and I am really proud to be a part of the first edition of the EurAsia Cup.”
Europe captain Miguel Angel Jimenez added: “I feel proud of my team, they’ve had a very intense week. To have a 10-10 result for the first EurAsia Cup is a very nice result. No-one wins, but at the same time golf wins.”
Asia captain Jaidee said: “I’m very happy with how we came back and shared the trophy. My team played so well today.
“Before the final round I told my boys to stay positive, play your own game and just enjoy.”
