Nelly Korda Leads Team USA’s Bid to End Solheim Cup Away Drought

Posted : 10 September 2026

Nelly Korda will spearhead Team USA's attempt to retain the Solheim Cup when the biennial contest against Europe begins at Bernardus Golf in the Netherlands on Friday. The Americans arrive as defending champions after beating Europe 15.5-12.5 in Virginia in 2024, but they have not won the competition on European soil since their narrow victory in Germany in 2015.

Korda heads into the event as the world's top-ranked player and one of the biggest threats to Europe's hopes. The American has enjoyed another outstanding season and will be looking to translate her individual success into another strong Solheim Cup performance.

Despite carrying the burden of being the player Europe most wants to stop, Korda insists she is not allowing the spotlight to affect her preparation. Instead, the 28-year-old is concentrating on keeping her approach simple and focusing on executing her own game.

Team USA captain Angela Stanford believes her players are well equipped to handle the pressure and the expected home support for Europe. The American side combines significant Solheim Cup experience with emerging talent, while Stanford is taking charge of the team for the first time.

Europe will be led by captain Anna Nordqvist, who is also making her debut as a Solheim Cup captain. Her 12-player squad includes four rookies, among them rising English star Lottie Woad, as Europe attempt to reclaim the trophy on home soil.

Charley Hull provides one of Europe's most experienced options. The Englishwoman is preparing for her eighth consecutive Solheim Cup appearance and will be particularly confident against Korda after defeating the world No. 1 in the singles at the 2024 contest. Hull finished as Europe's leading points scorer during that edition despite the team's overall defeat.

The first Solheim Cup staged in the Netherlands is expected to benefit from a passionate European crowd, adding another challenge for the American visitors. Bernardus Golf in Cromvoirt will host the 20th edition of the competition from September 11-13.

The tournament follows the Ryder Cup-style format, with foursomes and fourballs taking place on Friday and Saturday before all 12 players from each side compete in Sunday's singles. A total of 28 points are available, with the United States needing 14 to retain the trophy and Europe requiring 14.5 to take it back.

The US currently leads the overall Solheim Cup record 11-7-1, but away success has proved difficult to achieve. With Europe enjoying home advantage and a determined group of newcomers alongside experienced players such as Hull, Korda and Team USA face a demanding challenge if they are to extend their reign.

Nelly Korda Leads Team USA’s Bid to End Solheim Cup Away Drought

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics