Donald Trump greets crowd at Ryder Cup as Europe end first day with 3 point lead

The president arrived at Bethpage Black after Europe opened the latest edition of the biennial contest against the US with an impressive 3-1 win in the first foursomes session at the New York course.

Trump, a keen golf fan, waved to fans at the first tee before taking up position behind a transparent screen to watch the start of the first fourballs match.

Europe took control of the 45th Ryder Cup after a brilliant opening day, with a dominant performance handing them a 5.5-2.5 advantage going into Saturday.

Trump's presence prompted chants of ‘USA’ before a playing of the national anthem was accompanied by a military aircraft flyover.

US captain Keegan Bradley bowed in front of the president while European counterpart Luke Donald gave him a ‘thumbs up’.

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World number one Scottie Scheffler, involved in the first game alongside JJ Spaun, pointed to the president and pumped his fist.

Their opponents Jon Rahm and Sepp Straka largely ignored the high-profile visitor.

Bradley was certainly hoping Trump’s arrival could prompt an upturn in his side’s fortunes after a disappointing start to their bid to regain the trophy.

"We just had the president fly over on Air Force One, so I have a feeling things are going to turn," he said earlier.

The presidential visit had led to a huge increase in security measures at Bethpage.

Gates were opened at 5am to allow fans ample time to clear screening and take up position on the course. Spectators were also banned from bringing a number of items onto the property.