The 16th edition of the prestigious Solheim cup saw Team Europe emerge victorious. The event, which is for ladies, saw stars like Bronte Law and Suzann Pettersen drive hard to put make their side emerge as winners against a much competitive Team USA, defeating the defending champions.
The European side struggled, and it was the fact that they won their last three matches that actually sealed their fate as winners.
From the look of things at a point, Team USA were set to bring the cup home for a third time straight, but the Catriona Matthew led team showed us they were not there to just have fun.
Mathew acknowledges that each player put in their best to make the team emerge victorious, stating “All 12 players played their hearts out. We wouldn’t have won it if it wasn’t for all of us.”
Indeed every player rose to the challenge to ensure that Europe brings home the flag. One of the surprises is Suzann Pettersen. Initially, Matthew selected Pettersen to just have a role as a vice-captain, without being active, meaning she would not get to play.
But as time went on, she gave her a chance despite Pettersen not being fit, by setting standards, to partake. But that may have been for the good as it was she, Pettersen, who made the stroke that secured the trophy for Europe.
She, however, announced her retirement after the game. Bronte Law also showed her prowess, and she acknowledged the fan’s support referring to them as “the 13th team”.
The European team isn’t new to the Solheim Cup, having won it a total of 6 times out of the 16 editions played so far. Team USA seemed very likely to win after leading 13½-11½. It was the two previous games they won, and the final that made Team Europe taste victory.
Written by: Leon Osamor