Martin Kaymer, who struck the winning putt at Medinah as Europe retained the Ryder Cup two years ago, put a point on the board this afternoon by winning his singles encounter at Gleneagles against Bubba Watson.

After the first two holes were halved, the German took control of the contest as he won four holes in succession, thanks in part to three birdies.

Masters champion Watson reduced the deficit on seven, but Kaymer responded once again on the eighth to put himself 4 Up again.

With such a superior advantage, Kaymer played conservative golf, although on 13 he did find himself in the rough behind a tree. Nevertheless, he managed to find the green from that point and halve the hole, which all but ended any chance that Watson had of mounting a comeback.

The American did pull one hole back at the 15th, but at the 16th Kaymer chipped in to seal a 4&2 victory.