The upcoming Solheim Cup promises another nail‑biting showdown, but the big question remains: which side will hoist the coveted trophy, and which golfers are poised to make a splash at Bernardus Golf? Team USA arrives in the Netherlands as the defending champions, eager to secure their first triumph on European soil since their 2015 victory. Two years earlier, they celebrated a 15.5‑12.5 home win in Virginia, and now they hope to replicate that success abroad.
Leading the American roster is Angela Stanford, who backs world No. 1 Nelly Korda among a formidable group that includes ten players with prior Solheim Cup experience. The United States squad is determined to overcome the recent pattern of near‑misses in overseas editions and to prove they can dominate away from home.
On the European side, the duo of Charley Hull and Lottie Woad headlines Anna Nordqvist’s team. Europe’s lineup features six veterans from the dramatic 14‑14 tie in the 2023 edition held on home turf, giving them a blend of seasoned composure and fresh enthusiasm. Historically, the Solheim Cup has been decided by razor‑thin margins when played in Europe.
The last four European venues—as well as the 2021 edition in the United States—have all produced finishes where the winning team led by two points or fewer. There is little reason to believe this week’s contest will break that trend. What do the pundits from Sky Sports and the Golf Channel predict for the 2026 Solheim Cup?
Which European players could emerge as breakout stars, and which Americans are likely to carry the weight of expectation? We reached out to the experts for their insights.
Team USA is chasing back‑to‑back titles for the first time since 2017. Alison Lee is the sole player on the current roster who also featured in the dramatic 14.5‑13.5 comeback victory in Germany two years ago, highlighting her experience in high‑pressure situations.
Home‑field advantage has traditionally favored the host nation in this competition. Five of Europe’s seven Solheim Cup wins have come on home ground, including a 15‑13 triumph in Ireland in 2011 and a thrilling 14.5‑13.5 win at Gleneagles in 2019.
As Sky Sports’ Sophie Walker noted, “Bernardus feels more like a European course than the one in Spain, which may tilt the odds toward the Europeans. Yet it also resembles Walton Heath, where the Americans performed well at the AIG Women’s Open.” In the 2024 singles, Charley Hull delivered a commanding 6&4 victory over Nelly Korda, posting the highest individual score for Team Europe in that defeat. Korda, now ranked world No.
8, is returning for her eighth straight Solheim Cup, underscoring her commitment and consistency. Lottie Woad is expected to shine as one of Europe’s four rookie hopefuls.
Meanwhile, veteran Carlota Ciganda, a stalwart of the competition, swept all four of her matches in Spain during the historic 2023 tie, demonstrating the impact that seasoned players can have. An interesting pattern emerges when a captain selects three rookies: the team has historically gone on to win.
Europe achieved this in 2011 and again in 2021. This year, the hosts continue the tradition by introducing Nastasia Nadaud, Julia Lopez Ramírez, and Mimi Rhodes alongside Woad, hoping fresh talent will spark another victory.
Sky Sports Golf is set to deliver at least twelve hours of live coverage across the first two days. Broadcasts kick off at 6 a.m.
local time on Friday and Saturday, leading up to the opening foursomes match at 6:40 a.m. (7:40 a.m. local). The afternoon four‑ball sessions begin at 12:05 p.m.
(1:05 p.m. local) each day, with commentary continuing through the final putt. Sunday’s singles action starts at 9 a.m., with the first tee shot at 10:10 a.m. Fans wondering "Who will win the Solheim Cup?" can catch Team Europe’s quest to reclaim the trophy live on Sky Sports, with all three days streamed from Friday onward.
Viewers can also explore the latest Sky Sports subscription deals or opt for a contract‑free stream via NOW. Beyond the immediate matchups, the tournament offers a showcase of strategic course management, mental resilience, and the evolving dynamics of women’s professional golf.
Bernardus Golf, known for its undulating fairways and strategic bunkering, will test each player’s shot‑making abilities and adaptability. The course’s design, which blends classic links‑style elements with modern parkland features, may favor players accustomed to European conditions, but the American contingent’s recent success on similar terrain suggests a tightly contested battle. Key storylines to watch include: - **Nelly Korda’s quest for redemption** after her loss to Hull; her powerful ball‑striking and composure under pressure could be decisive in later matches.
- **Charley Hull’s momentum** following her dominant singles win; she brings aggressive play and confidence that could inspire her teammates. - **Alison Lee’s leadership** as a veteran who has experienced both victory and heartbreak in the Cup; her experience will be vital in guiding younger players. - **The rookie impact** from Woad, Nadaud, Lopez Ramírez, and Rhodes; their fresh perspectives and fearless approach could tip the balance in crucial moments. - **Captain Anna Nordqvist’s strategy**, especially how she pairs experienced players with newcomers to maximize chemistry and performance.
The Solheim Cup’s legacy extends beyond the scores; it represents a celebration of women’s golf, international camaraderie, and the spirit of competition. Whether you are a die‑hard fan, a casual observer, or someone new to the sport, this edition promises drama, skill, and unforgettable moments. Stay tuned, place your bets, and join the conversation—who do you think will lift the Solheim Cup trophy this year?