The 18th Solheim Cup ended in a historic tie score of 14-14 between the European and United States teams. The Europeans, as the two-time defending champions, needed only 14 points to retain the trophy, which they successfully did. Despite the tie, the European team celebrated their victory and hailed their players as legends.
It was a hard-fought battle between the two teams throughout the tournament. The European team captain, Suzann Pettersen, expressed her joy at the result, calling it a “dream come true.” She praised her team for creating history once again in the Solheim Cup.
On the other hand, the American team captain, Stacy Lewis, did not consider her team’s performance a loss. Despite squandering a 4-0 lead and failing to reclaim the trophy, Lewis emphasized the positive aspects of their performance. She acknowledged the young and inexperienced nature of her team, and the valuable experience they gained from this year’s Solheim Cup. Lewis expressed her pride in her team and their efforts, stating that they would aim to reclaim the trophy in the next tournament.
The highlight of the tournament was Carlota Ciganda’s performance for the European team. Ciganda became a Spanish sporting hero when she clinched the tying point for her team. Her tee shot on the par-3 17th hole, which she knocked to about 2 feet, will be remembered as one of the greatest shots of her career. Ciganda went on to win the match 2 and 1, with fans chanting her name as she celebrated with her teammates. She was the only player from either team to win four points and go undefeated in all her matches.
Megan Khang was hailed as the best player for the United States team. Khang had an impressive showing throughout the tournament, winning three matches and earning 3.5 points. She was a strong force for the Americans, particularly in her singles match against Sweden’s Linn Grant, which she won 1-up. Khang’s contributions were crucial in keeping the Americans in contention.
Linn Grant was recognized as the best rookie for the European team. Grant, despite being a Solheim Cup rookie, had already made a name for herself on the Ladies European Tour, winning five events since 2022. She played in all five sessions and achieved a record of 3-2, earning three points for her team. Grant acknowledged the responsibility of being out first in the singles matches and set the pace for the day.
Allisen Corpuz was named the best rookie for the United States team. Corpuz, a first-timer in the Solheim Cup, won two matches alongside Nelly Korda. Her performance in the foursomes matches, as well as her clutch putting, impressed her teammates. Corpuz and Korda are expected to be a regular pairing in future Solheim Cups.
Caroline Hedwall was a surprise standout for the European team. Initially not scheduled to play due to a rough patch in her game, Hedwall turned her performance around in the singles matches against Ally Ewing. She won the match 2-up, helping the Europeans narrow the gap with the U.S. team. Hedwall’s resilience and determination were praised by her captain and teammates.
Overall, the 18th Solheim Cup showcased the fierce competition between the European and United States teams. The tie score demonstrated the closely matched talent on both sides. With the Solheim Cup moving to an even-year schedule, fans can look forward to another thrilling tournament in 2024.