Welcome to the second edition of my Captain's Corner! This season I am taking you along on my journey as the European Solheim Cup captain, from the early preparations right through to the tournament itself, which will be hosted in the Netherlands for the first time from September 7 to 13. The golf calendar is already in full swing and we have just wrapped up the first major of the year, The Chevron Championship in Texas.
A large contingent of European women performed admirably, putting the continent in a strong position heading into the rest of the season. Early-season shifts in the Rolex Rankings have already begun to reshape the picture, with several players finding form at just the right moment. With four more majors on the horizon and a steep increase in points on offer, the race to secure a place on Team Europe promises to be thrilling as the weeks progress.
For the latest updates, video highlights, expert analysis and more, follow Sky Sports on WhatsApp. For the best viewing experience, we recommend using the Chrome browser, which provides a more accessible video player. Last week, the PING Europe apparel team joined us at The Chevron Championship for the first possible fitting of player and caddie attire. This marks the initial step in finalising the wardrobe that will be unveiled in the Netherlands.
Over the past three Solheim Cups we have worked closely with the PING Europe design crew, and that partnership has made the fitting process exceptionally smooth. They are receptive to our feedback and eager to adjust cuts, fabrics and colours to suit the needs of both players and caddies. While the final kits will remain a surprise until the teams arrive in the Netherlands, I was given an exclusive preview of the accessories we have selected, the materials we have chosen, and the colour palette that will dominate the event.
In addition to the standard uniforms, we have been brainstorming a few fun extras—special pins, custom socks and even a limited‑edition scarf that will be handed out to the most enthusiastic supporters. We are also in the final stages of confirming the formal attire for the Gala Dinner, which is scheduled for the Wednesday of Solheim Cup week, as well as the outfits for the Opening Ceremony. Both events will showcase a more refined look, reflecting the prestige of the competition while still incorporating subtle nods to the Dutch host nation. In related news, here are a few quick reference points for fans: - Solheim Cup 2026: everything you need to know about venues, formats and ticketing.
- Anna Nordqvist will captain Europe in 2026, bringing her experience as a former champion to the role. - A recap of how the United States secured victory in the 2024 Solheim Cup. - Options for streaming the Solheim Cup without a long‑term contract. We have partnered with a Dutch design firm to create a few bespoke pieces, and I am eager to see the players' reactions when they receive them.
I can already tell my vice‑captains, Mel and Carro, that there will be no mandatory dresses this year, which should provide a sigh of relief for many. Behind the scenes, the work continues with ongoing conversations with players, caddies and the broader support staff. Zoom meetings have become a daily staple for me, allowing quick coordination across continents and time zones.
The buzz around this Solheim Cup is palpable. It seems impossible to have a conversation without someone mentioning the event or asking for an update. Balancing my own tour commitments with the responsibilities of captain has been a challenge, but the Ladies European Tour, the LPGA and my management team have offered tremendous support, making it possible to juggle both roles effectively.
Being on this journey alongside the athletes is precisely why I accepted the captaincy. When I am paired with European players during practice rounds, I get a front‑row seat to watch them work, to hear their thoughts, and to build genuine relationships that go beyond the competition itself.
Stay tuned for the next installment of Captain's Corner, where I will share more insights, behind‑the‑scenes anecdotes and perhaps a few surprise announcements about the upcoming Solheim Cup. Anna Nordqvist's column was supplied by the Ladies European Tour ahead of the Solheim Cup, which will be broadcast live from September 11‑13 on Sky Sports. View the coverage by subscribing to Sky Sports or by streaming with a flexible, no‑contract option. If you are looking to play a round of golf yourself, you can find the best rates and book a tee time at any of the 1,700 courses across the United Kingdom and Ireland.
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