Europe retains Solheim Cup as Stanford questions Team USA’s putting and preparation
Europe defeated Team USA 15–13 at Bernardus Golf after Angela Stanford said missed putts and difficulty adapting to slower greens contributed to the result.
Europe retained the Solheim Cup with a 15–13 victory over Team USA at Bernardus Golf in the Netherlands, securing the deciding points in Sunday’s singles after the teams were tied 8–8 following four sessions.
Speaking to Yahoo Sports, USA captain Angela Stanford said her team had not made enough putts during the contest. She also said the Americans had struggled to adapt to greens that were slower than expected, adding that she accepted responsibility for not preparing the players better for the conditions.
The USA had drawn level on Saturday after Jennifer Kupcho made two putts totalling about 120 feet on the 17th and 18th holes. The late point gave the Americans momentum heading into the final day, but Europe won the singles to reclaim the trophy.
Assistant captain Paula Creamer also pointed to the difference in crowd support and atmosphere. European fans significantly outnumbered the American supporters, and Creamer said the team relied on energy from its travelling fans.
The next Solheim Cup is scheduled for 2028 at Valhalla Golf Club in Louisville, Kentucky. Stanford did not commit to leading Team USA at that event, saying there were several potential captains in line.
