Why Is This Enjoyable?

I admired the U.S. team players, our captain and their sportsmanship throughout the matches.

Yet, why is it that I and (a surprising number of) Americans derive just a wee bit of pleasure watching the U.S. Ryder Cup team lose?

Is it the notion that these losses reinforce the unsophisticated nature of American golf, where one-dimensional formats, setups and courses seem to render even our best players vulnerable in Ryder Cup match play settings?

Obviously part of this had to do with Darren Clarke's amazing play and emotional comeback.

But no, it's something else. Please help.