Phelps impressed by Ryder Cup atmosphere

CARNOUSTIE, SCOTLAND (AP) - For Michael Phelps, the atmosphere at last week's Ryder Cup was unlike anything he experienced at an Olympics.

The most decorated Olympian and golf enthusiast was at Medinah last week, and said the fan support for the home team made "the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end."

"Being able to go out in that environment on that course was something that I have never experience before in my entire career," said Phelps, who is playing in the Pro-Am Alfred Dunhill Links Championship this week, partnering with former Ryder Cup player Paul Casey.

"Of course, I had many Olympic team experiences, but nothing compared to last week's Ryder Cup being on home soil," Phelps said. "Fans were crammed 10 to 12 deep down every fairway every single day and just going crazy."

Casey and Phelps were at even par in the team event after the first round, 15 shots behind the leaders.

"Golf is very frustrating game and a very humbling game," Phelps said, "and also very challenging. I found that out today."

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