The United States claimed victory in the Solheim Cup for the first time in seven years after an intense final day singles competition at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club in Virginia.
The matches remained highly competitive until Lilia Vu secured a crucial half-point with a fantastic birdie on the 18th hole, allowing the home team to reach 14½ points and secure the Solheim Cup for the United States.
With a final score of 15.5-12.5 in favor of America, they clinched the cup for the first time since 2017.
Despite starting the final day with a 10-6 lead over Europe, Team USA lost the singles matches 5.5-6.5 but managed to secure a hard-fought victory under the leadership of team captain Stacy Lewis.
Even Charley Hull’s remarkable 6&4 victory over world No.1 Nelly Korda in the opening singles match could not spark a miraculous comeback at the Solheim Cup. Hull’s performance showed defiance but the United States team, eager to end their winless streak, displayed their talent in a nerve-racking finale.
After wins from Megan Khang, Allisen Corpuz, and Rose Zhang in the first five matches, the US team appeared to be cruising towards victory, needing just 1.5 more points to secure the win. However, Europe staged a thrilling comeback led by Suzann Pettersen, turning the scoreboard from red to blue.
Notable victories for Europe included Céline Boutier’s last-hole birdie to defeat Lexi Thompson and Leona Maguire’s 4&3 win over Ally Ewing. Europe also claimed points through Madelene Sagstrom and Maja Stark’s performances.
THREE TIED MATCHES
The fate of the cup rested on Lilia Vu, who redeemed herself with a crucial shot on the final hole to secure a tie against Albane Valenzuela and dash Europe’s hopes of a record comeback.
Stacy Lewis, the US captain, expressed her joy at the team’s victory, highlighting Lilia’s remarkable finish and the team’s overall performance.
European captain Suzann Pettersen acknowledged the fight her team put up and expressed pride in their effort despite falling short. She praised the team for their small victories throughout the tournament and looked ahead to future challenges.
Sunday Singles results – Europe 6.5 USA 5.5
– Charley Hull (EUR) def. Nelly Korda (USA) 6&4
– Megan Khang (USA) def. Emily Pedersen (EUR) 6&5
– Georgia Hall (EUR) def. Alison Lee (USA) 4&3
– Allisen Corpuz (USA) def. Anna Nordqvist (EUR) 4&3
– Rose Zhang (USA) def. Carlota Ciganda (EUR) 6&4
– Esther Henseleit (EUR) tied Andrea Lee (USA)
– Celine Boutier (EUR) def. Lexi Thompson (USA) 1 up
– Maja Stark (EUR) tied Lauren Coughlin (USA)
– Lilia Vu (USA) tied Albane Valenzuela (EUR)
– Madelene Sagstrom (EUR) def. Sarah Schmelzel (USA) 1 up
– Leona Maguire (EUR) def. Ally Ewing (USA) 4&3
– Jennifer Kupcho (USA) def. Linn Grant (EUR) 2&1
