Anna Nordqvist could not hide her delight after Team Europe secured the Solheim Cup, praising every competitor on the field and confirming that placing Charley Hull at the top of the Sunday singles lineup was an obvious decision. The European side reclaimed the trophy in a dramatic showdown at the rain‑soaked Bernardus Golf Course, capturing seven of the twelve points on the final day to edge Team USA 15‑13. The momentum shift began the night before, when Jennifer Kupcho’s clutch birdies rescued the United States and forced the contest into a tie. Europe responded with a surge that ultimately delivered their first outright victory since 2021.
Nordqvist, speaking to Sky Sports, described the win as "a feeling that’s incredibly rewarding after all the hard work put in over the past two years by the players and the entire support crew." She highlighted the seamless assistance from the background team, noting that their efforts allowed the golfers to focus solely on their game. "Leaving the course yesterday, we were buzzing for today’s matches," Nordqvist said. "When I saw every player and caddie stepping up to the first tee, I was genuinely impressed by the professionalism and readiness on display." She added that the early part of the competition was dominated by Europe, with the team establishing a comfortable lead.
"We talked a lot about how quickly the course was playing and how important those fast starts were. I’m extremely proud of our players for not only beginning strongly but also finishing with the same intensity." One of the pivotal moments came when Hull, who had only contributed half a point in the first four sessions alongside Lottie Woad, was entrusted with the opening singles match.
Nordqvist explained that the choice was data‑driven: "The statistics from yesterday showed Charley and Lottie were among the top‑four birdie makers for the week. Even though they hadn’t amassed many points yet, they were playing the toughest matches and demonstrated the skill level needed for this pressure situation." Hull’s performance validated the captain’s gamble. She delivered a decisive 3&2 victory over Megan Khang, securing her first full point of the tournament and helping Europe win six of the first eight singles matches – a historic first for the team. Hull reflected on her experience: "I’ve had a lot of chances this week and it’s been frustrating at times.
I didn’t make many long putts today, but I stayed steady, hit a lot of greens, and managed the difficult weather conditions." She also recalled a conversation with vice‑captain Mel Reid, who reminded her of her birdie‑making statistics: "You’re the third‑most prolific birdie hitter this week, and you’re up against Yealimi Noh, who has been phenomenal. It’s about staying composed in match play. I’m glad to have contributed a point, even if it’s just one and a half of the total." Lottie Woad, meanwhile, secured her inaugural Solheim Cup win by defeating Auston Kim, pushing the European total to 14 points and igniting jubilant celebrations among the home crowd. She expressed relief after a period of self‑doubt: "I felt I was playing well but not translating that into points, which was disappointing.
The captains reminded me I was third on birdies, so I trusted my game. In the end, I sank the winning putt." The final day concluded with Carlota Ciganda beating Jennifer Kupcho, sealing Europe’s victory. Looking ahead, the Ladies European Tour will travel to Spain for the La Sella Open at La Sella Golf Resort, while the LPGA Tour pauses before the Walmart N Arkansas Championship slated for late September.
The Solheim Cup will return in 2028, hosted by Valhalla Golf Club in Kentucky from September 8‑10. Fans can stay updated on Sky Sports offers or stream the action without a contract on NOW.