5 Greatest Moments in Solheim Cup History
The Solheim Cup, established in 1990, has become one of golf’s premier events, showcasing intense competition and fierce rivalries between the top female golfers of the United States and Europe. Every two years, this event delivers drama, teamwork, and unforgettable moments.
Here are five of the greatest moments in Solheim Cup history that have defined the event and left a lasting impression on the sport.
1. Suzann Pettersen’s Clutch Putt (2019)
Arguably the most iconic moment in Solheim Cup history took place in 2019 at Gleneagles, Scotland.
After a back-and-forth battle between Team USA and Team Europe, the Cup came down to the final singles match between Europe's Suzann Pettersen and America’s Marina Alex.
With the pressure mounting, Pettersen stood over an 8-foot birdie putt that would win the Cup for Europe. In a moment of pure composure, Pettersen drained the putt, sealing a 14.5–13.5 victory for Europe. Even the most avid golf betting enthusiasts could not have foreseen this moment.
What made this even more special was that Pettersen, one of Europe’s most decorated golfers, had come out of retirement just for this event.
She called it a day right afterwards, retiring from professional golf on a high note, marking the moment as one of the greatest in Solheim Cup history.
2. The ‘Miracle at Inverness’ (2021)
The 2021 Solheim Cup, held at Inverness Club in Toledo, Ohio, is remembered for Europe’s surprising victory on American soil.
Led by Catriona Matthew, the European team faced a formidable U.S. squad on home turf, but the Europeans never seemed intimidated.
One of the key moments was Irish rookie Leona Maguire's extraordinary performance.
Maguire became the first rookie to earn 4.5 points in a single Solheim Cup, defeating some of the biggest names in U.S. golf.
Her singles victory against Jennifer Kupcho on the final day epitomized Europe's grit, helping secure a 15-13 victory.
It was a monumental win, with the European team making history by winning back-to-back Solheim Cups on U.S. soil for the first time.
3. The Controversial Gimme (2015)
The 2015 Solheim Cup in Germany delivered a controversial moment that will forever be debated.
During a crucial match on Sunday morning, American Alison Lee picked up her ball after missing a putt, believing Europe’s Suzann Pettersen had conceded the putt.
However, Pettersen had not officially given the putt, leading to a penalty for the U.S.
The controversy set off a firestorm, with many criticizing Pettersen's decision as unsportsmanlike.
The incident fired up the U.S. team, and they mounted an incredible comeback in the singles matches later that day. Led by players like Michelle Wie and Gerina Piller, Team USA won 8.5 of the 12 available points to turn the tide and claim a stunning 14.5–13.5 victory.
The controversy sparked passionate debates but also ignited one of the greatest comebacks in the event’s history.
4. Europe’s First Win on American Soil (2013)
The 2013 Solheim Cup, held at Colorado Golf Club, marked the first time Europe secured a victory on American soil, making it a significant moment in the competition's history.
Not only did the European team win, but they did so in emphatic fashion, clinching a record-breaking 18-10 triumph.
Led by captain Liselotte Neumann, Europe dominated both the foursomes and fourball sessions, building an insurmountable lead going into the final singles matches.
Caroline Hedwall was a standout performer, becoming the first player in Solheim Cup history to win all five of her matches.
Europe’s dominant win marked a turning point in the rivalry, proving they could compete – and win – on American turf.
5. Nancy Lopez’s Emotional Comeback (2005)
Nancy Lopez, one of the most beloved figures in American golf, captained Team USA in the 2005 Solheim Cup, hosted at Crooked Stick Golf Club in Indiana.
After suffering a tough loss in 2003, Lopez was determined to lead her team to victory on home soil.
The U.S. trailed after the first two days, but on the final day, the American team mounted a remarkable comeback, winning eight of the twelve singles matches.
One of the most emotional moments came when Meg Mallon sealed the winning point, securing a 15.5–12.5 victory for the U.S.
The victory was particularly sweet for Lopez, who was overcome with tears as her team rallied to bring the Cup home.
The Solheim Cup is full of incredible moments that showcase the passion, skill, and tenacity of the world’s top female golfers.
From last-minute putts to controversial rulings, these five moments are just a few of the instances that have made the Solheim Cup one of golf's most compelling events.