The European squad has now been set, marking a pivotal moment in my tenure as captain and in the broader narrative of the Solheim Cup. With the roster locked in, our attention can shift entirely to the meticulous preparation of the twelve athletes who will represent Europe in the upcoming showdown. Finalising the team was an emotionally charged and demanding phase.
I spent countless hours on the phone delivering the tough news to those who fell just short of selection, informing them that they would not be part of the competition. Hearing the disappointment in their voices reminded me of the weight of this responsibility, but it also reinforced the importance of moving forward with clarity and resolve. Conversations with former captains proved invaluable during this period.
Their seasoned advice encouraged me to stay focused, to trust the process, and to recognize that once the roster was announced, the most arduous part of my job would be behind me. Their reassurance helped me navigate the delicate balance between empathy for the omitted players and the excitement of building a cohesive unit. One of the highlights of the announcement was the surprise delivered to the three newcomers—Julia López Ramírez, Nastasia Nadaud and Mimi Rhodes. Knowing that they had earned a place among my four captain’s picks filled me with genuine enthusiasm.
Their fresh perspectives and aggressive playing styles promise to inject new energy into the squad. The following day, after the conclusion of the AIG Women’s Open, Julia, Nastasia and Mimi joined me for a series of interviews and a live broadcast from the Sky Sports News studio.
Their reactions were a blend of disbelief and pride, underscoring how meaningful a captain’s selection can be for a rising talent. I am confident in the balance we have struck with this team. We have blended seasoned veterans with youthful vigor, creating a blend of experience, personality and hunger. The four rookies will bring a breath of fresh air, while the established players will provide the steadiness needed in high‑pressure moments.
In the weeks ahead, my primary focus will be solving the notorious “pairings puzzle.” Determining which players complement each other on the course, how to maximise our strengths and mitigate weaknesses, will be essential to crafting a winning strategy against Team USA. The support we have already received from fans, sponsors and the broader golfing community fuels my optimism for what lies ahead. Although the competition does not begin until September 11, the preparation is already in full swing. Our vice‑captains, support staff, caddies and numerous volunteers are working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure every detail is addressed.
From practice schedules to mental‑game workshops, every element is being fine‑tuned. The column you are reading was supplied by the Ladies European Tour in advance of the Solheim Cup, which will be broadcast live on Sky Sports from September 11‑13.
Viewers can watch the action without a contract by streaming through Sky Sports’ online platform. This year’s contest will take place at Bernardus Golf in the Netherlands, marking the first time the Solheim Cup has been staged in that country. Europe will be eager to reclaim the trophy, especially after the United States secured a 15.5‑12.5 victory in 2024.
The Dutch venue adds an extra layer of intrigue, as both teams will need to adapt to its unique layout and conditions. Our lineup includes Charley Hull and Esther Henseleit, who earned their spots through the LET Solheim Cup Points List. Lottie Woad, Maja Stark, Linn Grant, Céline Boutier, Carlota Ciganda and Nanna Koerstz Madsen qualified via the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings. The four captain’s picks—Leona Maguire, Julia López Ramírez, Nastasia Nadaud and Mimi Rhodes—complete the twelve‑strong roster.
Across the Atlantic, defending champions Team USA, captained by Angela Stanford, will reveal their squad later in August. Sky Sports Golf holds exclusive live rights to all three days of the biennial event, with coverage kicking off at 6 a.m.
on Friday, September 11, continuing at the same time on Saturday, and beginning at 10 a.m. on Sunday. To retain the Cup, the United States needs 14 points, while Europe must secure 14.5 points to claim its first outright victory since 2021.
The margin is slim, and every match will be contested fiercely. As we approach the start of the competition, I am eager to see how our pairings and strategies unfold. The journey from selection to the final putt is filled with challenges, but also with immense pride and anticipation.
I invite fans to tune in and witness Team Europe’s quest to bring the Solheim Cup back home, streaming live on Sky Sports or via the no‑contract streaming option. The excitement is building, and we are ready to give everything we have on the course.