DEN BOSCH – All 12 singles matches are in play on the final day of the Solheim Cup — and blue is filling the scoreboards across Bernardus Golf.
The European team made a strong start on Sunday in their quest to reach 14 1/2 points and reclaim the coveted crystal trophy. Notable performances came from Charley Hull, Esther Henseleit, and Linn Grant, who, competing in the first three matches, navigated the challenging wet conditions to establish significant leads as they made their way to the back nine.
In contrast, American star Nelly Korda found herself 3 up on European rookie Mimi Rhodes after the first nine holes of the fourth match. However, Korda’s progress was hindered by the fact that only one other American, Lauren Coughlin, was ahead in her matchup against Leona Maguire.
Historically, Team Europe has performed better on the shorter front nine during this tournament, leaving the door open for the Americans to mount a comeback as the competition unfolded.
The rivalry between Europe and the United States has remained tight throughout the week, with the two teams locked in a stalemate before the singles matches began. After Day 1 ended with a 4-4 tie, the teams found themselves at 8-8 heading into the decisive day. Rain greeted players and fans alike, prompting umbrellas to line the fairways as the early groups set out.
As the weather improved, players were able to shed their wet gear by the time Rose Zhang and Celine Boutier teed off in the final pairing at 1:22 p.m. local time (7:22 a.m. EDT). The trophy, proudly displayed at the boisterous first tee throughout the week, has been with the American team since 2024.
To retain the trophy, the Americans need 14 points, while both teams require 14 1/2 points to secure an outright victory.
Hull, who struggled in her previous matches, only managing half a point alongside Lottie Woad over the first two days, made an encouraging start by winning the first hole of her singles match against Megan Khang. She quickly extended her lead to 2 up with a birdie on the 10th hole.
The singles matches have proven to be closely contested in recent tournaments, with this being the seventh occasion that the Solheim Cup has seen teams tied after two days of play. Historically, the home team has a remarkable record of 5-0-1 in previous instances.
In the last five editions, the singles session has ended in a tie three times, with Europe winning the other two by narrow margins of 6 1/2 to 5 1/2. Regardless of the outcome, the final day of the Solheim Cup rarely disappoints, promising thrilling moments and exceptional performances.
___
See AP’s full golf coverage here
