GLENEAGLES, Scotland — It has become a rite of autumn: European golfers sinking putts, and Americans, and then showering one another with compliments and champagne.

The 40th edition of the Ryder Cup was no break with recent tradition.

The European cast continues to change. The size of the official merchandise tent continues to grow (and grow). But for 20 years, the identity of the winning team has varied little.

Sunday’s 16 ½-11 ½ victory at Gleneagles was Europe’s third straight win over the United States, and its eighth in the last 10 editions.

The last two Cups were decided by just 1 point very late on the final day of singles. But although there was plenty of exceptional golf on Sunday in Scotland, there was no great suspense, as an early American charge soon faltered.