Mimi Rhodes is thrilled to finally live out a childhood aspiration by stepping onto the Solheim Cup stage, and she is fully behind captain Anna Nordqvist as Europe aims to reclaim the title on Dutch soil. This week marks Rhodes' inaugural appearance for Team Europe at Bernardus Golf, after she earned a captain's pick from Nordqvist last month. The home side are eager to bounce back after their 2024 loss to the United States. The English golfer enjoyed a decorated amateur career before breaking through on the Ladies European Tour, where she notched three victories in her rookie season last year.
Building on a promising first year on the LPGA Tour, Rhodes now has the chance to fulfill a lifelong ambition: representing Europe in the sport’s most prestigious team event. "For me, this is the culmination of twelve years of hard work since I first picked up a club," Rhodes told Sky Sports in an exclusive interview. "I grew up watching the Solheim Cup on television at my grandparents' house, surrounded by family who love team sports and especially team golf. The tournament only comes around once every two years, and it’s hard to put into words how surreal it feels to actually be playing in it.
"Since turning professional, this has been my number‑one goal—more important than any major win. I’ve always wanted to wear the European colors and compete alongside the best of our continent." Rhodes began the season with back‑to‑back top‑10 finishes, but a rough patch saw her miss seven cuts in eight events between April and July, leaving her uncertain about a captain’s pick. She steadied her form toward the end of the qualification period, making the cut at both the ISPS Handa Women’s Scottish Open and the AIG Women’s Open, while many of her rivals faltered. It was only after the final women’s major of the year that Nordqvist called to confirm her selection.
"That phone call was absolutely surreal," Rhodes recalled. "When you chase something so fiercely and it finally happens, you have to ask yourself, ‘Is this really happening?’ The months leading up to it were stressful—I didn’t know what to expect.
I was bracing for the worst, but when Anna rang, I was overjoyed. I want to make her proud and I can’t wait to get out there and play." Rhodes’ connection to the Solheim Cup runs deep. In 2019 she participated in the PING Junior Solheim Cup at Gleneagles, and later she watched the senior event from inside the ropes as Suzann Pettersen clinched a dramatic 14.5‑13.5 victory for Europe.
"That memory sticks with me," she said. "After the match they threw a little celebration and invited us in—being that close to the action was incredible.
Watching from that spot made me think, ‘I’m going to work hard to earn a place on that team.’ Representing Europe is the pinnacle of achievement in women’s golf." The last three Solheim Cups held on European soil have produced the tightest finishes in the competition’s history. Both 2015 and 2019 were decided by a single point, and the 2023 edition ended in a 14‑14 tie. Rhodes believes Europe has a realistic shot at turning the tide and bringing the cup back to the continent.
"On paper, the strength of the U.S. team doesn’t matter as much as the belief we have," she asserted. "During practice I felt great vibes among the Europeans, and that confidence will be intimidating for the opposition." She also praised Nordqvist’s leadership, noting the captain’s calm demeanor during practice sessions. "Anna radiates confidence and knows how to lead.
She’ll steer us in the right direction and keep the atmosphere positive. Knowing she’s proud of us already takes some pressure off, but she’ll also keep us disciplined.
She’s an excellent communicator and we’re excited to follow her guidance." Rhodes summed up the team’s mission succinctly: "We’re going to make Anna proud and bring the trophy home." Fans eager to see whether Europe can overturn the United States’ recent dominance can catch all three days of action live on Sky Sports Golf from September 11‑13. Sky Sports also offers streaming options through NOW, with flexible deals and no‑contract plans for those who want to follow the drama as it unfolds. The anticipation surrounding Rhodes’ debut is palpable, not just for her personal milestone but for the broader narrative of a European squad determined to rewrite recent history.
With a blend of seasoned veterans, rising stars, and a captain who commands respect, Team Europe is poised to give the Solheim Cup a fresh chapter—one that could see the coveted trophy return to its continental roots.