Lilia Vu sinks winning putt as USA hold off Europe fightback to lift Solheim Cup

In a thrilling conclusion to the Solheim Cup, the USA triumphed for the first time since 2017, edging out Europe with a final score of 15½ to 12½. Charley Hull delivered a standout performance, defeating Nelly Korda 6&4, which momentarily reignited hopes for her European teammates. Set at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Club, the event evoked fond memories among golf fans, highlighting the intense rivalry and camaraderie that define this prestigious tournament.

Captain Stacy Lewis kept her team composed under pressure, leading them to reclaim the trophy. “It was a stressful experience to watch,” Lewis admitted. “But fortunately, this time we were on the right side of it.” This victory carried extra weight, especially after the heart-wrenching tie in 2023 in Spain, where Europe managed to secure a 14-14 draw.

Hull, leading the charge for Europe, was matched against Korda in a highly anticipated showdown. Her remarkable 6&4 win provided a glimmer of hope as Europe trailed 10-6. Reflecting on the match, Hull shared, “Suzann [Pettersen] told me they always knew I was going to play Nelly first, and if anyone could beat her, it was me. That gave me confidence.” Her strong showing, shooting eight under on her own ball the day prior and seven under through 14 holes during singles, affirmed her prowess against the world’s elite.

As the day unfolded, the atmosphere fluctuated. Georgia Hall contributed to European optimism with a 4&3 win over Alison Lee, but the US retaliated with Megan Khang’s commanding 6&5 victory against Emily Pedersen. With Allisen Corpuz and Rose Zhang adding two more wins for the US, the situation remained tense as Europe still led in several ongoing matches.

The drama escalated as Lexi Thompson engaged in a fierce duel with Céline Boutier. After being 3up at one point, Thompson’s lead evaporated as Boutier launched an impressive birdie streak, ultimately clinching victory on the final green.

The competition tightened further when Maja Stark, who started strong, encountered trouble after leading 3up. A missed shot on the 14th hole leveled the match, showcasing the day’s unpredictability.

Focus then shifted to debutant Albane Valenzuela, who was 1up over Lilia Vu on the 18th. Vu seized a critical moment, sealing the US victory with a clutch eagle approach. With Jennifer Kupcho defeating Linn Grant and Madelene Sagström besting Sarah Schmelzel, the US celebrated its long-awaited return to glory.

Criticism surfaced regarding Pettersen’s decision to overlook Leona Maguire in crucial matches. Maguire, who eventually secured a win against Ally Ewing, expressed her disappointment, calling the decision a “bitter pill to swallow.” Reflecting on her omission, she added, “I think I proved that there’s more than one way to skin a cat. I made plenty of birdies today.”

This Solheim Cup has undoubtedly left fans eagerly anticipating the next matchup in the Netherlands in 2026, reminding everyone why this tournament holds such a cherished place in the golfing calendar.