Anna Nordqvist, the three‑time major champion who will serve as captain of Team Europe at the upcoming Solheim Cup, has taken to social media to announce that she will hang up her professional golf clubs after this week’s FM Championship, which will be broadcast live on Sky Sports. The 39‑year‑old Swede, a veteran of nine Solheim Cups as a player and a member of five victorious squads, will lead Europe at Bernardus Golf from September 11‑13. Although she has continued to compete on the LPGA Tour and has remained a consistent presence in major championships, Nordqvist confirmed that she will retire before the season concludes.
In a joint statement posted by the LPGA Tour and the Ladies European Tour, Nordqvist wrote, “It is with a grateful heart that I am retiring from professional golf in Boston this week.” The announcement marks the end of a distinguished career that began in 2004 and includes a maiden major title at the 2009 LPGA Championship, a second major at the 2021 AIG Women’s Open, and nine LPGA Tour victories. In addition to her LPGA success, she has claimed three titles on the Ladies European Tour and represented Sweden at two Olympic Games.
Nordqvist reflected on her two‑decade journey in a heartfelt letter posted to her social channels. She recalled arriving in the United States with “two suitcases, a golf bag, and a dream of one day competing with the best golfers in the world.” While she admitted that her aspirations never quite took her to the very pinnacle she once imagined, she expressed pride in how far she has come and gratitude for the experiences the sport has afforded her. She acknowledged the challenges of being far from family, noting that “they have supported me every step of the way.” The former vice‑captain, who served in that role during the last two Solheim Cups, explained that she had to choose between continuing as a playing captain and focusing on her health and family.
“I don’t know how to say goodbye to something that means so much to me, but this will be my last week walking inside the ropes on tour,” she said. Nordqvist added that she hopes to concentrate on her well‑being and future family plans now that her competitive days are concluding. Her announcement prompted an outpouring of tributes from fellow golfers. Annika Sörenstam, a ten‑time major winner and Nordqvist’s compatriot, praised her “great career,” while players such as Jessica Korda and Auston Kim also sent congratulations.
During a pre‑tournament press conference in Boston, Nordqvist elaborated on the timing of her decision. She explained that she had always intended to lead the European team through the Solheim Cup journey and felt that the FM Championship was the appropriate final chapter. “The last few years have been tough as I tried to regain my form,” she said.
“I wanted to finish on my own terms, and this event gave me that opportunity.” Nordqvist also spoke about her physical condition, noting that she feels “like myself again inside the ropes” and that she wants to end her career while still enjoying the game. She highlighted her desire to start a family and to prioritize her health, stating, “I’m quite content with what I’ve accomplished, and it’s time to focus on my family and my well‑being.” She confirmed that the decision to retire was made earlier in the year, but she waited for a moment when she could celebrate her final tournaments without the distraction of constant media speculation. “Most of the interview focus this year has been on the Solheim Cup, not on me,” she observed.
“Having a quiet, personal farewell with my loved ones has meant a great deal to me.” Travel woes added drama to the start of her final week. Nordqvist recounted a 22‑hour journey from Canada to Boston, including cancelled flights and a tearful episode on the floor of Toronto’s airport where she feared missing her retirement dinner. The LPGA commissioner allowed her to skip a player meeting so she could join her team for the celebration. Looking ahead, Nordqvist’s retirement opens a new chapter for European golf.
As captain, she will guide the team through a fiercely contested Solheim Cup that will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Golf from September 11‑13. Fans can follow the action and also explore special Sky Sports offers or stream the competition via NOW without a contract. For those interested in playing the sport themselves, Sky Sports promotes discounted rates at over 1,700 courses across the UK and Ireland, inviting golfers of all levels to experience the game that has shaped Nordqvist’s life.
In summary, Anna Nordqvist’s announcement signals the conclusion of an illustrious playing career that spanned more than twenty years, featured multiple major victories, and included significant contributions to Europe’s Solheim Cup successes. While she steps away from competition, she will remain at the helm of Team Europe, bringing her experience and leadership to the upcoming tournament. Her decision reflects a thoughtful balance between personal health, family aspirations, and a desire to exit the sport on a positive note, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations of Swedish and European golfers.