Charley Hull expressed genuine excitement at the prospect of another Solheim Cup duel with Nelly Korda, while Korda downplayed any notion of an "intimidation factor" that might give Team USA an edge over Team Europe. Hull is set to make her eighth straight appearance for Europe in the biennial competition, which will be staged at Bernardus Golf in the Netherlands.
The European side is determined to recapture the trophy after a loss on American soil two years earlier, and the event will be broadcast live on Sky Sports. The 30‑year‑old Englishwoman was the top scorer for Europe in the 2024 edition, where she beat Korda 6&4 in the Sunday singles match.
Hull says she would welcome the chance to meet the world No.1 again, this time under the captaincy of Anna Nordqvist, as Europe pursues a home victory. "Playing Nelly Korda that day was fantastic – it was a lot of fun," Hull told reporters at the pre‑tournament press conference. "I felt I was playing well, and I think I earned my day too. She’s had an extraordinary season so far, and if we were to meet in singles again it would be a great contest.
I have huge respect for Nelly; she’s the top player in the world, a brilliant golfer, and anything can happen in match play." Hull and fellow veteran Carlota Ciganda bring the most Solheim Cup experience to the field, having featured in every tournament since 2013. Despite their veteran status, Hull insists she does not feel additional pressure. "I see my role simply as a player," she said. "I stick to my routine, keep my own game plan, and let the captains give advice when needed.
Younger teammates can always come to me for tips, but ultimately I just try to play my golf the way I always do." Korda, making her fifth consecutive Solheim Cup appearance, arrives in the Netherlands as the dominant force in women’s golf. The 28‑year‑old American has already secured four LPGA victories this season, including the first two majors, and boasts one of the highest winning percentages in Solheim Cup history.
She has formed an unbeaten foursomes partnership with Allisen Corpuz in the last two editions, and teammate Andrea Lee hopes Korda’s presence will give Team USA a decisive edge. "We all respect her immensely and look up to her," Lee explained. "She has an incredible game and being the world No.1 makes it a huge boost for us. It does add a bit of an intimidation factor for Europe, but that’s part of the excitement." When asked about the intimidation narrative, Korda brushed it aside.
"I don’t really think about that," she said. "I stay in my own bubble and try not to get distracted.
My goal is simple: play my game. If the opposition feels intimidated, that’s fine, but I’m focused on my own performance." Korda also highlighted the passion that the Solheim Cup inspires on both sides. "What I love about this event is the fire each team brings.
When Europe gets fired up, it pushes us to raise our level as well. My only target is to play my best and hope the United States brings a lot of passion too." The broadcast schedule promises extensive coverage. Sky Sports Golf will deliver at least twelve hours of live action across the first two days, beginning at 6 a.m.
local time on Friday and Saturday, with the opening foursomes tee‑off at 6:40 a.m. (7:40 a.m. local).
The afternoon four‑ball sessions start at 12:05 p.m. (1:05 p.m.
local) each day, and coverage will continue through the final putt. Sunday’s singles matches commence at 9 a.m., with the first tee‑off at 10:10 a.m. The closing ceremony will be streamed live on Sky Sports+ at 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, following the crowning of the Solheim Cup champions.
The opening ceremony on Thursday at 4:30 p.m. will reveal the first‑day pairings. Beyond the on‑course action, the tournament offers a platform for players to discuss broader topics. Recent headlines have featured Angel Yin speaking about her health challenges and Team USA doubts, while discussions continue about LIV Golf’s future after its recent bankruptcy filing and the potential impact on the DP World Tour, as highlighted by Rory McIlroy’s comments.
In summary, the upcoming Solheim Cup pits seasoned European veterans like Hull and Ciganda against a formidable American squad led by world No.1 Nelly Korda. Hull’s enthusiasm for a rematch, combined with Korda’s focus on playing her own game, sets the stage for a compelling showdown.
Fans can tune in to Sky Sports Golf for comprehensive live coverage from September 11‑13, with additional streaming options available on NOW for those who prefer a contract‑free experience.