The European women's golf team defeated the United States on home soil to reclaim the Solheim Cup title after two years.
On September 13, local time, Europe recorded 7 wins and 5 losses in the final day of singles match play at the 2026 Solheim Cup held at Bernardus Golf in Cromvoirt, Netherlands. This brought the final score to 15 points for Europe and 13 for the U.S., allowing Europe to lift the trophy.
Having lost the trophy to the U.S. in the previous tournament in 2024, Europe restored its pride with this victory. The overall tournament record now stands at 8 wins, 1 draw, and 11 losses for Europe.
However, since the 2023 tournament in Spain ended in a tie at 14-14, the previous champion retains the title according to the rules, meaning Europe has held the cup 9 times and the U.S. 11 times.
Additionally, since losing in the 2015 tournament in Germany, Europe has maintained an unbeaten streak at home, winning 2 and drawing 1 in the last three tournaments held in Europe.
Established in 1990, the Solheim Cup features teams of 12 players each from the U.S. and Europe. Over three days, the teams compete in 8 foursome matches, 8 four-ball matches, and 12 singles match play contests, with the team earning the most points declared the winner. Each match win earns 1 point, a tie earns 0.5 points, and a loss earns no points.
During the first two days of foursome and four-ball matches, both teams were evenly matched at 8 points each. However, as the singles match play progressed on the final day, the momentum gradually shifted in favor of Europe.
Europe's captain Anna Nordqvist of Sweden took a gamble by sending out Charlie Hull of England as the first player, despite Hull's earlier putting struggles. Hull secured a victory, boosting the team's early momentum.
Following that, four players—Nanna Koerstz Madsen of Denmark, Nastasia Nada of France, Julia Lopez Ramirez of Spain, and Lottie Woad of England—each secured wins starting from the fifth match, solidifying Europe's advantage.
The victory of rookie Woad, making her Solheim Cup debut, was crucial. She held off a strong challenge from Austin Kim of the U.S., maintaining a 2-hole lead until the 17th hole, earning the team its 14th point.
At that point, Carlota Ciganda of Spain was already ahead by 3 holes, ensuring Europe reached the necessary 14.5 points for victory.
The U.S. made a late push, with Lauren Coughlin and Lindy Duncan adding points to bring the score to 14-12.
The clinching point came from Ciganda, who decisively defeated Jennifer Kupcho of the U.S. by 4 holes, securing Europe's victory. Ciganda had previously lost to Kupcho in the four-ball match the day before but redeemed herself with this win.
Despite the U.S. team, led by world No. 1 Nelly Korda, achieving 2 wins, 1 draw, and 1 loss in the tournament, they were unable to overcome the deficit.
The next Solheim Cup will take place in September 2028 at Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, Kentucky.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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