Team USA resisted a spirited fightback by Team Europe on Singles Sunday to win the Solheim Cup 15.5-12.5 and secure a first victory since 2017.
Boosted by the support of their home crowd, the Americans roared into a 6-2 lead after day one and consolidated their advantage during a second day of foursomes and four-ball matches by tying both Saturday sessions 2-2.
Stacy Lewis' squad led 10-6 heading into the final day at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club and were heavy favorites to wrap up victory early on but came under immense pressure from Suzann Pettersen's dozen from the get-go.
Charley Hull thumped Nelly Korda 6&4 in the top match while fellow Englishwoman, Georgia Hall comfortably saw off Alison Lee 4&3 in the third.
However, significant triumphs for Megan Khang, Allisen Corpuz, and Rose Zhang appeared to have turned the tide and put Team USA on the brink of achieving the 14.5 points they required to regain the Cup.
Although they were close on the scoreboard, the shift in momentum out on the course made Lewis and co. feel like they were further away than ever in ending Europe's unbeaten stretch.
As the blue leads began to pile up, there was - in fact - a brief 30-second timeframe where the projected score was 14-14. But the Americans refused to lie down and climbed their way out of several seemingly impossible situations to set up a hat-trick of possible winning opportunities.
Lexi Thompson - competing in what could well have been her final Solheim Cup - was unable to grab the first chance against a resurgent Celine Boutier before Virginia-born Lauren Coughlin was made to settle for a half against Maja Stark.
Europe's inability to hold onto narrow leads down the back nine was what ultimately collapsed their unlikely comeback - perhaps most obviously highlighted by Albane Valenzuela's match against Lilia Vu, who became the player to hole the decisive putt. Vu was two down with only 17 and 18 left to play at Robert Trent Jones but found a couple of last-gasp birdies to wrestle back the crucial half-point at the death.
And although there were late wins for Leona Maguire and Madelene Sagstrom, it was too little, too late for the Europeans and Jennifer Kupcho was able to put the icing on the cake for Team USA via 2&1 win over Linn Grant in the bottom match.
America will now possess the Solheim Cup until at least 2026, when the biennial match returns to Europe and is contested at Bernardus Golf in Cromvoirt, The Netherlands.
Solheim Cup Final Score:
USA 15.5-12.5 Europe
Solheim Cup Singles Scores
- Match 1: Nelly Korda v Charley Hull - Europe Wins 6&4
- Match 2: Megan Khang v Emily Pedersen - USA Wins 6&5
- Match 3: Alison Lee v Georgia Hall - Europe Wins 4&3
- Match 4: Allisen Corpuz v Anna Nordqvist - USA Wins 4&3
- Match 5: Rose Zhang v Carlota Ciganda - USA Wins 6&4
- Match 6: Andrea Lee v Esther Henseleit - Ends All Square
- Match 7: Lexi Thompson v Celine Boutier - Europe Wins 1UP
- Match 8: Lauren Coughlin v Maja Stark - Ends All Square
- Match 9: Lilia Vu v Albane Valenzuela - Ends All Square
- Match 10: Sarah Schmelzel v Madelene Sagstrom - Europe Wins 1UP
- Match 11: Ally Ewing v Leona Maguire - Europe Wins 4&3
- Match 12: Jennifer Kupcho v Linn Grant - USA Wins 2&1
Live updates from:
Hello and welcome to the opening day's play at the 2024 Solheim Cup! We have a very special three days ahead of us in Virginia, where the stars of the women's game battle it out in one of the sport's greatest events.
Follow along on golfmonthly.com all weekend for the latest scores and updates from the 19th Solheim Cup.
NEARLY READY!
The 1st tee shot will be struck in just 10 minutes' time and the atmosphere is building on the first tee.
THIS MORNING'S FOURSOMES MATCH-UPS
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HERE WE GO THEN
Goosebumps. It's rowdy. The players are coming out to 'Eye Of The Tiger'. As you'd expect, Team Europe fans are well outnumbered. That won't bother Suzann Pettersen. Can the US stop Europe making it four in a row? I have a feeling this is going to be a thriller. I also have a feeling it might get a little prickly at times - not sure why, but I think the US are sick of being on the losing end. We could have real fireworks. The first shot is moments away...
WE'RE OFF
Corpuz leaks one into the fairway bunker. Hull, meanwhile will like where her partner has left her - on the short stuff.
HOW'S THIS FOR A NERVE SETTLER?
The first foursome has teed off!The 2024 Solheim Cup is officially underway 🤩 pic.twitter.com/qqh1OLJpxXSeptember 13, 2024
What nerves! The perfect tee shot will make Esther Henseleit feel like a million dollars. Hull fires her approach slightly long, leaving Henseleit a tricky chip from the back of the green. The German plays a beauty and the putt is conceded. Corpuz has a putt from about 15 feet for the win... slides by. Hole halved.
Henseleit with a dart
Henseleit has come out swinging beautifully - this time with a dart of a wedge into the 2nd. Korda misses from about 12 feet. Hull tidies up from about 3 feet to give Europe an early lead in this one.
TAYLOR SWIFT IS BOOMING OUT
It's 2024 and of course we have loud music on the 1st tee. Some players appear to ask for silence, others whip up the crowd and ask them to keep the cheers going whilst they hit. Personal choice. Might give this a go. Maybe lots of noise provides a distraction, helping you to clear all the negative thoughts. Would make for an interesting piece of research.
WHAT A FIRST HOLE
Par 4, 430 yards. Some players hitting woods into the 1st. It's not an easy one to start - no easing the players in with something gentle. It makes for great viewing.
ALL MATCHES NOW UNDERWAY
The players are being announced onto the tee like boxers. I like it. The PA announcer certainly does. Ciganda over does it with her fade - finds the right rough. Lilia Vu responds with a beauty. Advantage US there. Meanwhile, Korda wins the 3rd with a par and Zhang makes one on 2 to go IUP alongside Coughlin.
3-PUTT BOGEY
No sooner does Korda level things up, than she misses from 7 feet on the 4th. Corpuz was rather too aggressive with her effort from range, and that's a 3-putt bogey to gift Hull/Hen the hole.
EUROPE UP IN 1, THREE TIED
Grant with her first putt on the match on 2. It's a good one. Strokes it in from 6 feet to convert Ciganda's lovely approach. Meanwhile, Europe go 2UP in the third match courtesy of Pedersen's putt on 3. The first match has reached the par-5 5th, and it goes to the US. Europe rather make a mess of that hole.
EUROPE GO 3UP THROUGH 4
Schmelzel not playing like a rookie - she hits a stunner into the 3rd. Moments later, we almost see Valenzuela hole out at the par-5 5th. Kupcho and Ewing are now 3DOWN in match number 3.
It's tight
Boutier is in the zone. She answers the US birdie with a lovely putt of her own on the 5th. This match is producing the most quality so far - a very high bar set. Lilia Vu and Sarah Schmelzel are now 1UP in the bottom match.
SHOT OF THE DAY SO FAR...
Lilia Vu with a GREAT shot from an extremely awkward lie 😲🏖️ pic.twitter.com/xHjtsQCcMPSeptember 13, 2024
We won't see many fairway bunker shots better than this this weekend.
HORSESHOE ALERT
Linn Grant can't hole another one - just misses the par putt, which leaves Schmelzel to tidy up from close range. USA go 2UP in that match.
EWING/KUPCHO STOP THE ROT
Ewing and Kupcho are now just 3DOWN through six holes. A bit sloppy there from Europe. Pedersen lips out from about 5 feet - that will annoy them as it gives their opponents a glimmer of hope. Losing to a par is never good.
PIN HUNTING
Ace approach from Albane 😮💨#SolheimCup pic.twitter.com/B3hISSdPKrSeptember 13, 2024
This is the beauty of this contest - take aim and fire. We've seen lots of this already and both sides trade early punches.
WORLD NO.1 DIALLED IN
Ok @NellyKorda 🤯@SolheimCupUSA goes @ Up in Match 1 with this beauty of an approach and a concession pic.twitter.com/cLg1yr9qqqSeptember 13, 2024
Don't forget this one... Nelly Korda and her partner are beginning to take control in their match.
KORDA 2UP
They were down early, but Nelly Korda shows her class there with a deft chop from the back of the 9th - that was not easy. It means the World No.1 and Allisen Corpuz make the turn 2UP.
Meanwhile, Pedersen restores Europe's 4UP lead in match three with a mid range putt on the 7th.
USA 3-1 EUROPE
That's how it stands, although we've already seen the scores changed quickly.
REACHING THE TURN
So, as the first match finishes the 9th, USA currently leads 3-1 (that's to say, they're up in three and down in one). Valenzuela and Boutier are 1DOWN as they arrive on this beautiful par 3. Coughlin just goes through the green, leaving Zhang with a chip; Valenzuela with a little held-off shot is all over the flag - rolls out to about 20 feet, maybe a little less.
BIG FROM HULL & BOUTIER
Charley hole holes an important putt from about 16 feet to reduce the deficit. Back to 1UP USA in the top match. And there's more good news for Europe as Valenzuela holes for par on the 9th. It was about 3 feet that one, Boutier's first effort a touch aggressive.
HULL ON A ROLL
Hull has a putt from 5 feet to make it two in a row. Flag in. Downhill, bit of a break to the right.... makes it! It's now tied in the top match. Onto the 12th hole in the top match. Tough to call, this one.
KORDA/CORPUZ REGAIN LEAD
The credit here goes to the 2023 US Women's Open champion, who holes her putt from 18 feet. Henseleit can't follow her in and the US go back into the lead in the top match.
PROBLEMS FOR THE FANS
We recognize and deeply apologize to all fans affected by the challenges with shuttling from parking to the golf course. We’ve made significant changes to our transportation system to mitigate these issues moving forward, and we’re working on ways to express our regret to those…September 13, 2024
We've seen fans trickling in through the gates this morning. This statement probably explains why it's not as noisy as you'd expect out there.
ONE MATCH BEING TIMED
The final match is on the clock - they've fallen behind. There's a suggestion Carlota Ciganda might be the reason for that. She has a reputation, apparently, for not being the quickest of players. Anyway, the USA lead that match 1UP through eight holes. To provide a bit of context, match three are playing the 11th.
MORE ON THAT LAST GROUP
Stunned to learn Ciganda's group is on the clock. Stunned I tell you. Former captain Catriona Matthew jokes on TV coverage that there's a good reason the Spaniard is in the last match out #SolheimCupSeptember 13, 2024
BACK TO TWO
Kupcho has a chance to get another one back in match three - just misses to the right. It matters not because Pedersen can't convert from 10 feet. A comeback is being staged - US were 4DOWN remember.
USA ON THE MARCH
Suddenly USA are leading 3-1... then it's back to 2-1. Henseleit with a crucial putt in the top match to level things up. This match has been topsy-turvy. Which way will it go? On the bottom match, Europe have a bad time. Two bad times and they will have to give USA a hole.
A SHOUT OUT TO FORMBY LADIES
Support for Team Europe on show on a blue and gold flag - 'Good luck from Formby Ladies.' I can confirm, as Catriona matthew says in commentary, that Formby Ladies is one very fine golf course and well worth adding to your list if you haven't been there. Talking of great courses, this Trent Jones layout looks fantastic, too, with those par 3s particularly easy on the eye.
WHAT A MISTAKE
Drama on the par-5 15th. First Henseleit finds the water with her second, then Corpuz follows her in. That has to go down as a mistake. Things are starting to get tense out there.
NEARING THE END FOR MATCH 1
Back on the 14th. Hull playing the 4th shot. 84 yards over the water. Safe. For a moment, it looked like it might spin back into the drink. Korda plays her 4th from closer in and she can take a lower route - just a 6/10. It will be a putt-off.
MASSIVE PUTT!
Redemption for Korpuz who holes the putt on 14. Now 1UP with four holes to play. That was clutch.
MORE TROUBLES ON 14
Boutier is in the drink now, and Europe aren't in a position to give the US gifts. It's looking good for the US now, up in three, down in one.
IT'S GOING RED
Rose Zhang with a beauty on the 14th. She sends a pitch into the par-5 14th that checks up at about 15 feet from the hole. Europe need to make it from a similar range and hope Coughlin misses. The scoreboard has started to turn red when it matters most.
BIG CHANCE GOES
Ally Ewing wastes a great chance to cut the deficit on the 13th. Kupcho's approach deserved better. Europe remain 3UP. As things stand, it's likely to be the only match that goes their way this morning.
USA ON A ROLL
Korda does what Hull can't do - she holes from short range on the 15th. It's all looking rather nice for US now, 2UP in the top match. It's looking more and more like 3-1 after the first session.
KORDA/CORPUZ WIN
The first point goes to USA. They win the last three holes of the match to take it 3&2. That was a classy finish. A high-quality match ends with Corpuz converting for birdie.
RED ON THE BOARD
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HERE'S HOW MATCH 1 ENDED
Sealed the deal!@allisen_sc and @NellyKorda take home the point from Match 1 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/4TvEkabvhZSeptember 13, 2024
USA GO 2-0 UP
Another point quickly follows - Rose Zhang closing out match 2.
ZHANG MAKES IT TWO
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GETTING BETTER FOR USA
And now Ewing and Kupcho are just 1DOWN. They've battled back from 4DOWN and there's still a chance USA can make it a clean sweep after the first session. Early warning signs for Europe.
USA, USA, USA
Match ✌️ goes to @rosezhang and @LCisHOOSgolfin for @SolheimCupUSA! pic.twitter.com/VOxzjBdZmvSeptember 13, 2024
4-0 STILL ON
Drama on 16. Pedersen has a rush of blood. Stark is left with six feet after her partner smashes her effort past the hole from no more than 20 feet. In the end, it's a half. Pretty much all eyes are now on this match. What a bonus point this would be for the USA.
EUROPE CLINGING ON
They may have come back from 0-4 last year, but Europe will be desperate to take at least a point from the opening session. Pedersen and Stark are wobbling after being 4UP through five.
EUROPE UNDER PRESSURE
Kupcho fires one close on 17 and Stark can't reply from the thick rough. It looks as though Ewing could have a putt of some 4 feet to square the match up. Huge moment coming up.
THE PAIRINGS ARE OUT
Friday Afternoon Four-Ball Pairings at @TheSolheimCup 🏆 pic.twitter.com/J6fITW57OzSeptember 13, 2024
EUROPE SURVIVE
Ewing's putt stays out - so USA stay 1DOWN. It was more like 6 feet to be fair, and very slippery.
VU MAKES IT 3-0
The Americans close out a third match. That one had been coming - and it's another 3&2 victory. All eyes now on the third match. They'll feel desperate to take a point after being 4UP. It's tense.
Ewing finds the putting surface - a touch fortunate with the bounce. 25 feet birdie chance coming up. Pedersen isn't in the mood to relinquish the lead. She's surely closed the door there with an arrow at the flag. The ball nestles about two feet away.
USA LEAD 3-1
It was a great fightback from Ewing and Kupcho, but it's to no avail.
EUROPE CLAIM FIRST POINT
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HOW TO CLOSE OUT A MATCH
Stunning from Emily Pedersen to win Europe's 1st point! 🇪🇺 pic.twitter.com/gTcjVfZsDvSeptember 13, 2024
WHAT HAPPENED THIS MORNING?
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"Let's go USA"
Barack Obama is in the house. "Let's go USA," he shouts. The former US president, a keen golfer, is a member at the club.
HERE WE GO AGAIN
Stand by for aggressive golf. There will be lots of flag hunting with four balls in play. It doesn't mean you can play recklessly, just that you get a nice green light to attack if your partner puts one in a good position. And if they don't, and your opponents get one in close, you have no real choice. Attack! Great format.
The announcer, one you might recognise from DC United games, is just as excited as the fans. After the players are announced, Leona Maguire finds the fairway. Georgia Hall takes a tight line and finds the fairway bunker.
Now for Nelly Korda. Fairway. Obviously. Megan Khang whips up the crowd. Crowd obliges. Fairway. Fist pumps. Let's go...
"AWESOME MORNING"
Stacy Lewis describes the morning's foursomes as "awesome". It was for America, not so good for Europe. There's no need to panic, yet. I think Pettersen would take 5-3 after the first day's play. She's still smiling and looks relaxed. Why would you worry when you've seen your team come back from 4-0 down before? Right, back to the action...
FOURBALLS ARE OFF
Maguire hits what looks like a hybrid into the 1st. It's a beauty. A pumped Khang goes left - well left. Hall goes bunker to bunker. Korda with a 7-iron to 18 feet. Maguire in closest after being the first to play. We're underway in the fourballs...
ALL SQUARE UP TOP
Maguire has a chance to win the first hole, but her putt is a poor one - a bit of a pull. Match two teed off very promptly... more whipping up the crowd.
GOOD START FOR EUROPE
Europe get the start they wanted. Very early days but they take a lead in the second match courtesy of Nordqvist's putt.
MISSED CHANCE
After getting pumped up on the 1st tee, Khang maybe needs to take a few deep breaths. She spurns a glorious chance for a win at the 2nd, her putt from just a few feet lipping out hard.
OBAMA OFFERING HIS SUPPORT
Barack Obama at The Solheim Cup!! 🤩🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/Dh4zEQOcRySeptember 13, 2024
ALL SMILES IN THE CROWD
ALL MATCHES NOW OFF
Advantage USA in the bottom match. Linn Grant is quite far back and Hull is in the fairway bunker. Andrea Lee is the only player to find the fairway.
HULL LOOKING TO BOUNCE BACK AND MAKES GOOD START
Linn Grant and Charley Hull take on Andrea Lee and Rose Zhang in the final four ball today and both Europeans are on the green in two and in decent shape.
US DODGE A BULLET IN THE OPENING FOURBALL
Georgia Hall and Leona Maguire blew putts apiece there at the fourth to get their match back to level and they remain one down against Nelly Korda and Megan Khang in the opening match.
Lee and Zhang scrambling to make par on the first
Andrea Lee and Rose Zhang both failed to hit the green at the first in two and are scrambling to make par. Lee's putt for a four has missed. Zhang's putt, from shorter range, has also missed leaving Hull and Maguire shorter putts for the win on the first. Hull holes out and Europe are one up.
Europe fire in fine shot at the par three fourth but Thompson fired up
Great shot from Anna Nordqvist at the par 3 fourth where she will have a good look at potentially her second birdie of the day after opening with a birdie which has put the Europeans ahead, one up. Lexi Thompson then replies with a superb short iron of her own to close range for USA.
.@Lexi mic'd up on the first tee 🔥 pic.twitter.com/GPZZrrRlQ8September 13, 2024
Brilliant birdie from at the fourth Anna Nordqvist
Anna Nordqvist has holed out for a superb birdie at the fourth , leaving Lexi Thompson with a birdie putt to tie the hole which she makes and does a fist-pump but Europe remain one up.
KORDA LOOKING GOOD AFTER MAKING ANOTHER BIRDIE
Nelly Korda and Megan Zhang are two up in the top match now against Georgia Hall and Leona Maguire. It was the world No.1's second birdie in three holes. It came after she wedged in close and converted the putt at the par five fifth.
Lauren Coughlin goes in the water at the par 3 fourth
Advantage Europe at the par 3 fourth were both Emily Pedersen and Maja Stark while Lauren Coughlin went in the drink and then Sarah Schmelzel missed left into the sand. It is a great chance for Europe to go ahead in this game which is all square. Coughlin takes three off the tee and finds the green at the second attempt.
GREAT PLAY FROM KORDA AT THE SIXTH FROM THE SAND
Korda will have another birdie look at the sixth after a fine approach from a bunker but both Hall and Maguire are both on the green too. Korda makes it and is on a roll.
Sarah Schmelzel makes a superb par with a sand save
That is a brilliant sand save from Sarah Schmelzel on the par 3 fourth after she missed the green and her partner went in the water. Emily Pedersen then missed her par putt after hitting the green and having a birdie putt. Stark now must hole for par despite also being on the green with a birdie putt. Stark does it and the game remains tied.
ROSE ZHANG WITH A BIG BIRDIE PUTT ON THE THIRD
The final match is back level after the third after Zhang drained a big birdie putt and Hull was unable to get hers.
KORDA ON A ROLL AFTER THIRD BIRDIE IN SIX HOLES
Korda is living up to her world No.1 status with a third birdie in six holes and it has left Georgia Hall and Leona Maguire trailing three-down. Europe are yet to make a single birdie in contrast in this game and it is hard to see them turning this game around right now.
Nelly Nelly Nelly 💯Nice birdie on 6 for @NellyKorda gets @SolheimCupUSA 3 Up in Match 5 pic.twitter.com/ZjGZ3lb6HHSeptember 13, 2024
LINN GRANT AND CHARLEY HULL WIN THE FOURTH
Grant and Hull have won the par 3 fourth where they have both made birdies and USA were unable to reply. Europe go back to one up in the final match.
USA RACING AWAY WITH IT IN THE TOP MATCH
Nelly Korda and Megan Khang are now four up after seven holes after Khang's first birdie of the round. Hall and Maguire were also in close with birdie chances but both European players are still yet to make a single birdie so far.
CLOSE IN THE SECOND GAME WHICH REMAINS TIED
Lexi Thompson's birdie on the par 5 fifth levelled the second game and all four players just made a par on the sixth.
Climbing the ranks 📈@Lexi knocks in a birdie to bring Match 6 back to a tie pic.twitter.com/kkB9K3Rrl9September 13, 2024
GRANT AND HULL DENIED BY ANOTHER BIG ZHANG PUTT
Grant and Hull are both on the green with decent birdie looks on the fifth as USA opponent Andrea Lee struggles on the long course. Partner Rose Zhang will putt first for the hosts who are one down in the final match and she drains her second big putt from distance en-route to a win in that hole.
KORDA AND KHANG LOOK UNSTOPPABLE
Khang has just nailed her second birdie in a row and they have a seemingly unstoppable lead of five up through eight holes in the first match against an out of sorts Hall and Maguire who don't look best pleased - especially after sitting out the opening session.
HALL AND MAGUIRE STILL FIGHTING ON THE PAR 3 NINTH
Hall and Maguire both have a chance to land their first birdie of the day after putting their tee shots in close at the par 3 ninth. Nothing has dropped for them so far though and they trail Korda and Khang five down after eight holes. The Americans are down for three leaving Europe a chance to reduce the deficit which Hall makes.
Did someone say 5 Up thru 8????@megan_khang1023 and @NellyKorda did 😎 pic.twitter.com/bGS72l2BtXSeptember 13, 2024
Andrea Lee helps USA take the lead in the bottom match
Andrea Lee has been having an indifferent round but has just made a birdie three on the sixth to put USA ahead for the first time today against Hull and Grant.
AWESOME DRIVE FROM KORDA ON THE PAR 4 10TH WHO FINDS GREEN
Korda has just put her drive at the 362-yard par four tenth to about 10 feet past the hole. It has coincided with USA taking the lead in the bottom match and they are course for a dominant lead on day one. Hall and Maguire by contrast have both failed to find the green in two with Hall leaving her second in the sand.
USA TAKE THE LEAD IN THE THIRD MATCH
Sarah Schmelzel's birdie three on the seventh has put USA one up in the third match as the hosts hit the front for the first time today in this match against Pedersen and Stark.
EUROPE PUT SOME BLUE ON THE BOARD IN THE SECOND GAME
Europe are up in the second match by one hole after they won the eighth where Anna Nordqvist made a four on the par five.
Swedes making the charge 👊Anna Nordqvist with a birdie on No. 8 takes @SolheimCupEuro 1 Up thru 8 in Match 6 pic.twitter.com/D5JAFioMc3September 13, 2024
EUROPE HIT BACK QUICKLY IN THE BOTTOM MATCH
Grant has nailed a birdie at the seventh to tie their match with Hull after USA duo Lee and Zhang briefly took the lead.
Advantage to Lauren Coughlin at the par 5 eighth
Lauren Coughlin will be last to putt at the par 5 eighth after chipping up to around eight foot with her third as Europe can only make par. Coughlin then drains the uphill right to left putt as they go two up.
Madelene Sagstrom has just made her first birdie
Madelene Sagstrom makes a birdie two at the par 3 ninth to win the hole for the Swedes in the second match who go two up against Lee and Thompson.
Europe goes 2 Up in Match 6 with this solid putt from @msagstrom 🤌 pic.twitter.com/REI72XnCJASeptember 13, 2024
KORDA WITH OUTRAGEOUS SHOT TO PAR 5 12TH
Korda is on a different level here. She has made four birdies and has put her approach to the par 5 12th to about 18 inches which has been conceded. Korda hit a 5 iron into the green with her second at the uphill 475 yard hole. USA are six up with six to play in the top match and have a chance to equal the biggest ever 7&5 scoreline in the competition in the fourballs.
In case you didn't catch it, this is a par 5 and that's @NellyKorda's second shot 🤯 pic.twitter.com/cXtNgydtNXSeptember 13, 2024
BRILLIANT TEE SHOT FROM Anna Nordqvist ON THE 11TH
Europe having a tough day but are looking good in the second match where the Swedes have a very close birdie look on the par 3 11th and a chance to go four up potentially against Thompson and Lee which Nordqvist converts.
Nordqvist going straight at the 11th flag 👏#SolheimCup pic.twitter.com/1H2xnTRV8LSeptember 13, 2024
MAGUIRE KEEPS TOP MATCH ALIVE
USA are five up with five remaining after Maguire makes a birdie to win the hole on the the par 4 13th. Korda and Khang both had birdie putts to win the match but missed.
USA BACK INFRONT IN CLOSE FINAL MATCH
Andrea Lee has just made an impressive two on the par 3 ninth to put USA one up in the final game against Hull and Grant.
Sarah Schmelzel in close on par 3 11th
Sarah Schmelzel and Lauren Coughlin are one up against Emily Pedersen and Maja Stark and have a chance to potentially extend that lead after both the hosts players hit the green at the par 3 11th. Schmelzel will be last to putt and should get a read off Coughlin too as they are on a similar line. Schmelzel makes it to go two up.
KORDA SET TO WRAP UP WIN ON THE PAR 5 14TH
Korda has just stuck a four iron hybrid in close with her second shot at the par 5 14th. USA are five up and that should be enough to clinch the win in the top match. She has been on fire with Khang.
GRANT PRODUCES EXQUISITE CHIP
With her partner Hull in trouble off the green, Linn Grant , who short-sided herself, has just produced a superb chip to about three feet to give herself a chance of making a birdie to halve the hole against Lee and Zhang after Lee made a birdie on the short par 4 10th. But the Swede shoves her putt out to the right and Europe are two down.
Unreal short game skills from Linn Grant 👀#SolheimCup pic.twitter.com/m45aYfdgfASeptember 13, 2024
KORDA COMPELTES SECOND SUCCESSIVE WIN
Korda has just made her second eagle on the back nine to win the hole and the match 6&4 with Khang against Hall and Maguire in a stunning performance.
"Why not finish in style?" 👏A dominant performance from Nelly Korda and Megan Khang 💥 pic.twitter.com/mOcMrKzTduSeptember 13, 2024
KORDA AND KHANG REACT TO THEIR EMPHATIC WIN
Korda said: "I hit some solid putts in the morning and I saw the green speed and how they were breaking. That was beneficial for the afternoon."
Khang added: "We have been asking for his pairing for a while and we had so much fun out there. It was awesome having a front row seat to see some of these putts she has been making."
Madelene Sagstrom DRAINS BIG EAGLE PUTT
Madelene Sagstrom has really come to the party on the back nine and has just made a big putt for an eagle on the the par 5 12th. She and Anna Nordqvist are now five up with six holes left and on course for Europe's only point.
USA TAKING CONTROL IN THE BOTTOM GAME
Lee and Zhang have hit fine tee shots into the par 3 11th with Zhang making her birdie putt to put USA three up in the final fourball game.
EUROPE WRAP UP EMPHATIC WIN IN THE SECOND GAME
Anna Nordqvist and Madelene Sagstrom birdied the 13th to seal a 6&5 win over Alison Lee and Lexi Thompson. The pair made seven birdies and an eagle. Nordqvist, whose caddie Jack Clarke married Sagstrom last week, said: "I crashed her wedding last week and this week I am crashing her and my caddie's honeymoon. USA came out really strong today which we expected and one of two putts can make the difference." Sagstrom added: "Anna played super good on the front nine and I turned it around on the back nine. I couldn't be anymore happy to celebrate my honeymoon here."
ROSE ZHANG'S PUTTER CONTINUES TO DO DAMAGE
Rose Zhang's putter continue to hammer the visitors. She has holed a couple of big ones and just nailed an eagle putt on the 13th to put USA four up against Hull and Grant after getting a read from Hull's attempt which slid by.
EUROPE'S BEST CHANCE OF GETTING SOMETHING IS NOW PENULTIMATE GAME
Emily Pedersen and Maja Stark are two down with six holes left. They are putting out on the 13th where Pedersen has a birdie putt which slides by giving Sarah Schmelzel a chance to go three up which she converts impressively.
HULL AND GRANT NEED TO COME UP WITH SOME MAGIC
Hull and Grant are still battling away and are on the par 4 13th with a chance of a birdie, they need something special quickly. Zhang's putt races but Andrea Lee drains her impressive downhill birdie effort before Grant follows it in. USA stay up four up in the final game with five holes left.
SUPERB CHIP BY Lauren Coughlin ON PAR 5 14TH
Lauren Coughlin raises her arm as she thought her chip was in there on the 14th but she has a tap in birdie after it ran past the hole. Emily Pedersen, who was in a green side bunker in two, has just splashed out to a similar distance. Europe are not giving in easily here as Pedersen makes a birdie.
OUTRAGEOUS SHOT FROM ANDREA LEE TO SET UP WIN
Lee and Zhang are four up with five holes left and could wrap up victory here at the par 5 14th where Lee's approach flirted with the bunker but bounced over the edge and ended up with a kick in eagle. Lee's putt was conceded and it is over after Grant failed to chip in and Hull's putt from the fairway rolled past.
Andrea Lee came SO CLOSE to an albatross 😲 pic.twitter.com/Dg3nwKCi2DSeptember 13, 2024
EUROPE FACING ANOTHER DRUBBING IN AFTERNOON
This morning's 3-1 session is on course to be repeated here with just one match left on the course now. Rookie Lauren Coughlin and Sarah Schmelzel are three up through 14 and set to hand USA an unprecedented 6-2 lead on day one.
ZHANG AND LEE REFLECT ON THEIR BIG WIN
Andrea Lee and Rose Zhang won 5&4 after playing the last six holes in eight under par, including an eagle on the 14th, to blow away Linn Grant and Charley Hull. Zhang said: "We ham and egged it super-well and we never lost that confidence in each other. It was nice to see some putts go in and I was almost shaking when her shot nearly holed out." Lee added: "I got off to a little bit of a slow start but I was glad to make a run at it starting on the ninth. We just pumped each other up and supported each other. It was nice to have a finish like that."
PEDERSEN'S BIRDIE PUTT SLIDES BY AS USA GUARANTEED A HALF
Pedersen's failure to birdie the 15th means USA are three up with three to play in the final game left on the course and are therefore guaranteed a half point. USA captain Stacy Lewis said: "The players produced some great shots and great scores which got us the points. At times in Spain last year we got a bit flat but I wanted to put players out there with the right energy. You certainly saw that with Nelly and Megan skipping out."
USA CAN wrap up victory in this final game on the par 3 16th
Europe are likely to need a birdie on the 16th to keep this game alive as they trail three down with three to play. Lauren Coughlin is on the green for USA with Emily Pedersen and Maja Stark also on the putting surface. They are closer than Coughlin too and could have putts to keep the game alive.
Lauren Coughlin drains birdie putt on the 16th to win the tie
USA has a 6-2 lead after day one after Lauren Coughlin just drained a big birdie putt on the 16th to ensure a 4&2 win with Sarah Schmelzel over Emily Pedersen and Maja Stark.
GREAT DAY FOR ROOKIE Sarah Schmelzel AND LAUREN Coughlin
Coughlin, who drained a birdie putt to beat Pedersen and Stark infront of Barack Obama, said: "Sarah played unbelievable, it was awesome. We have had a lot of fun this week." Schmelzel added:" Both of us settled in well this morning and we came out really aggressive and believed in each other."
Europe captain Suzann Pettersen reflects on tough first day
Pettersen said: "We will have to tighten up the game plan and come out hungrier. We have a lot more points to play for. We have to get really motivated. Today we made a good effort, in the game we had a lot of matches going in the foursomes but they slipped away from us. But we got everyone playing and they are probably going to feel a lot more comfortable overall tomorrow."
SATURDAY FOURSOMES PAIRINGS OUT
Saturday morning foursome pairings at @TheSolheimCup 🏆 pic.twitter.com/9PCoNxZ1IfSeptember 13, 2024
DAY 2 PAIRINGS
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PETTERSEN - "MASSIVE" CHALLENGE AHEAD
"We faced quite a big challenge last year. We've done it before. We can do it again," the European captain said.
"It's going to take a massive effort, but I know we can do it. Today's play, it's kind of all history now. So all I would say, I think we gave it a good effort."
GOOD MORNING FROM ROBERT TRENT JONES GOLF CLUB
It's day 2 of the 2024 Solheim Cup!
Europe has a "massive" challenge according to Pettersen and she's not wrong, with Lewis' Americans looking inspired yesterday.
Korda, Zhang, Coughlin and Schmelzel all went 2/2 while seven Americans won at least one point vs just four for Europe.
Can Europe mount a fightback today? It's set to be another thriller.
TRANSPORT ISSUES FIXED?
The LPGA has opened gates earlier today and also added more busses, hopefully, to allow fans to get into the grounds easier and faster.
Yesterday was a fiasco and the LPGA had to release two statements and are even offering tickets to those badly affected by the chaos.
pic.twitter.com/V902EC85VlSeptember 14, 2024
WHAT ARE THE MOST USED DRIVERS AT THE SOLHEIM CUP?
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HOW MANY POINTS EVERY PLAYER WON ON DAY 1:
USA
- Korda: 2
- Zhang: 2
- Schmelzel: 2
- Coughlin: 2
- Khang: 1
- Corpuz: 1
- Vu: 1
- An Lee: 0
- Al Lee: 0
- Kupcho: 0
- Ewing: 0
- Thompson: 0
EUROPE
- Nordqvist: 1
- Pedersen: 1
- Stark: 1
- Sagstrom: 1
- Hull: 0
- Boutier: 0
- Henseleit: 0
- Valenzuela: 0
- Hall: 0
- Maguire: 0
- Ciganda: 0
BIG DAY FOR CHARLEY HULL AND LINN GRANT (AND EUROPE)
Europe's second-ranked player went 0-2 yesterday, losing in the foursomes with Henseleit and then the four balls with Linn Grant.
Grant also went 0-2 after losing in the morning with Ciganda.
Hull and Grant will be desperate to put some points on the board for Europe, with Hull going out again with Henseleit in the foursomes this morning.
Grant has been rested for session one on Saturday so we'd expect to see her back out in the afternoon.
There's another eight points up for grabs today and Europe simply need to win the day. If they can go 5-3 today and get it back to 9-7 they will have a fighting chance in the singles. Anything less and you have to feel that USA will have one hand on the trophy.
WE'RE OFF
Korda plays a crisp hybrid into the 1st. Pedersen responds with a cracker from the fairway bunker. Corpuz with a slight advantage on the green.
MATCHES
A reminder of what we have coming up:
Match 1: Corpuz/Korda (USA) vs Pedersen/Ciganda (Europe)
Match 2: Ewing/Kupcho (USA) vs Henseleit/Hull (Europe)
Match 3: Coughlin/Thompson (USA) vs Stark/Hall (Europe)
Match 4: Vu/Schmelzel (USA) vs Nordqvist/Boutier (Europe)
1ST HALVED IN PAR
Steady start in the top match - no fireworks. Has Pettersen put Ciganda out first to try and slow Nelly Korda down? A tactic, perhaps? The Spaniard is not the quickest. Europe have a putt to win the hole, but it's a one in 20, at best. Rolls out to tap in range and we move on.
Back on the tee, advantage USA. Europe go bunker to bunker. Kupcho finds the center of the green.
MATCH NUMBER 3 UNDERWAY
The 07.29 tee time features Maja Stark and Georgia Hall for Europe, and Lexi Thompson and Lauren Coughlin for USA. Can Europe find a fairway - the 1st hasn't been too kind to them so far? Hall gives it a rip and go straight for the tee - but it rolls out into the rough. Lie doesn't look too bad. USA find another fairway.
Up ahead, Pedersen converts Ciganda's beautiful approach. Hull, meanwhile, misses from about 8 feet to hand a 1UP lead to USA in the second match.
FINAL MATCH OFF
Match 4: Vu/Schmelzel (USA) vs Nordqvist/Boutier (Europe).
Anna Nordqvist tees off first. At last, Europe find a fairway. She wasn't sure, there, what with the early morning light making it difficult to track the ball flight. USA also find the fairway.
Europe tie up match 2, and that was all down to a stunning bunker shot from Esther Henseleit. Ciganda and Pedersen have made a fast start - they've gone 2UP.
CHANCE GOES
An outside chance on the first of the par 3s goes for Ciganda. It was to give Europe a 3UP lead in the top match but her putt just slides by. No harm done.
Ewing has a putt to tin the 2nd. Didn't lack any pace, but it doesn't touch the cup. Europe are gifted the 1st hole in the bottom match. The early momentum is with the Europeans. Very early days.
YES, LEXI
Thompson calmly slots one in on the 2nd to give USA an early lead in match 3. A little fist pump - she liked that one.
CIGANDA ON FIRE
What an approach by the Spaniard - a laser into the 5th. In the last match, Boutier can't get her birdie effort to drop on the 2nd - a bendy one from about 15 feet. Vu has a par putt of about 8 feet - misses. Europe go 2UP in that one. Two 2UP leads for Europe.
Stark, meanwhile, with a 3-putt bogey. Thompson and Coughlin go 2UP in match 3.
HOW THINGS STAND
Early days...
Match 1: Corpuz/Korda (USA) vs Pedersen/Ciganda (Europe) EUR 2UP (5)
Match 2: Ewing/Kupcho (USA) vs Henseleit/Hull (Europe) A/S (4)
Match 3: Coughlin/Thompson (USA) vs Stark/Hall (Europe) 2UP (3)
Match 4: Vu/Schmelzel (USA) vs Nordqvist/Boutier (Europe) EUR 2UP (2)
Pedersen misses a 10-footer there to extend Europe's lead to 3 holes.
HULL GOES PIN SEEKING
Charley Hull taking on the pin 🎯 pic.twitter.com/2OLo3Y57ybSeptember 14, 2024
HALL PULLS ONE BACK
Georgia Hall gets one back with a nice putt on the 4th hole - back to USA 1UP in that one.
A GIFT FOR EUROPE
Vu pumps a 20-footer past the hole and her partner misses the one back. That'll really hurt. Europe 3UP in the bottom match.
A RARE US HIGHLIGHT
Lexi Thompson with the birdie on No. 2 to go 1-up ⬆️ 💪 pic.twitter.com/N9EGZZINY7September 14, 2024
SCHMELZEL STRUGGLES CONTINUE
Two missed short putts now - the latest coming on the 4th. Her tee shot left Vu in the bunker and despite a great recovery from Vu, Schmelzel can't make the par putt from about 5 feet. She's looking a little shaky. Not sure you need your captain giving you a pep talk so early in the match. The hole is halved.
DOOR OPEN FOR EUROPE
Chances all over the place for Europe - Henseleit will have a putt to most likely give Europe a 2UP lead in match 2. USA's struggles continue in the bottom match, with Europe in position to go 4UP through 5.
Only Thompson and Coughlin giving USA something to cheer about at the moment. It's still early days but Europe have a platform here. Nicely poised.
BACK TO 1UP IN MATCH 3
Hall tidies up from close range to get one back on Thompson/Coughlin. And Europe do go 4UP in the anchor match.
A RARE CHANCE GOES BEGGING
Corpuz misses a decent opportunity to pull one back in the top match. The putt was struck well on the 8th green, narrowly misses and after a little consideration, Europe say pick it up. Not much dropping for USA still.
HULL & HEN ON A ROLL
That's three holes in a row for Europe, who now lead USA 2UP through seven holes. There are now a few concerned faces amongst the American team.
A RARE MISS
It's not often you see the World No.1 miss from that range. It was a little slippery. Probably just the pressure of the match and the fact Korda has rarely been behind. so far in this contest Ciganda, who pulled her tee shot, has three feet for the half and she rolls it straight in the middle. They've dodged a bullet there.
EUROPE UP IN 3
Here's how things stand as the top[ match goes through the turn. USA need a bit of inspiration from somewhere, and it might just come from the World No.1. Korda has put her partner in a very strong position on the 10th.
Match 1: Corpuz/Korda (USA) vs Pedersen/Ciganda (Europe) EUR 2UP (9)
Match 2: Ewing/Kupcho (USA) vs Henseleit/Hull (Europe) EUR 3UP (8)
Match 3: Coughlin/Thompson (USA) vs Stark/Hall (Europe) USA 1UP (7)
Match 4: Vu/Schmelzel (USA) vs Nordqvist/Boutier (Europe) EUR 4UP (6)
KORDA STRIKES
That's exactly what the USA need - big players stepping up. After almost driving the green, she cleans up from about 5 feet. The chip from Corpuz wasn't great but Nelly takes care of business with a confident putt.
Meanwhile, more cheers for the USA as Thompson holes from close range to put the Americans 2UP again in match 3.
TROUBLE STARTING TO WOBBLE?
Hull pulling her tee shot into the hazard on the drivable par-4 10th is the latest poor shot. This is the stage yesterday where they lost their way and the USA took control. They can't afford for the same to happen today? Big moments coming up you feel.
THE START OF A US COMEBACK?
Nelly with a birdie to cut the European lead to 1 Up in the first foursomes match of the day 💪 pic.twitter.com/1RxWBzoUGwSeptember 14, 2024
BIG, BIG MOMENTS
Hull may have driven into the hazard, but she makes amends at the par-4 10th with a snaky 7-footer. That was big. Europe dodge another bullet just at the time when it looked as though USA were starting to fight back.
In the anchor match, Europe have taken a 5UP lead. Vu, the World No.2, doesn't look too happy about that.
EUROPE 6UP IN THE ANCHOR MATCH
Schmelzel misses another putt - this one from about 8 feet. It's just not happened for Sarah today. It might not be too long before Europe close the gap to three.
ABSOLUTELY BANANAS
Nelly with a birdie to cut the European lead to 1 Up in the first foursomes match of the day 💪 pic.twitter.com/1RxWBzoUGwSeptember 14, 2024
BIG PUTT FROM CIGANDA
That had level match written all over it. Ciganda loves it when the odds are against her and rolls in a birdie putt. Corpuz does the same. That's a half. Europe clinging on in the top match - feels huge that one.
EAGLE 2!
Just the 5DOWN through 10 now. A super tee shot from Schmelzel and Vu does the rest. Loving the par-4 10th, a drivable par 4 that is giving us a lot of drama. Can that spark a magical comeback?
LEVEL AT THE TOP
Corpuz threatens the hole from 30ft, just pulls up. Pedersen misses from 10 feet and the top match is level. Are things starting to turn?
The anchor match looked over, but it's back to 4UP through 11. A glimmer of hope for the Americans duo there.
SCORE UPDATE
Ok, so now we're approaching the crucial point. It's all well and good getting a good start, but can you deliver a point for your side? Team USA fighting back...
Match 1: Corpuz/Korda (USA) vs Pedersen/Ciganda (Europe) A/S (13)
Match 2: Ewing/Kupcho (USA) vs Henseleit/Hull (Europe) EUR 2UP (12)
Match 3: Coughlin/Thompson (USA) vs Stark/Hall (Europe) USA 2UP (11)
Match 4: Vu/Schmelzel (USA) vs Nordqvist/Boutier (Europe) EUR 4UP (11)
WHAT A SHOT!
Well, it was in the end. Corpuz tops her approach on the par-5 14th and it looks destined for the lake. Somehow it skips up onto the green avoiding the bunker as well, and Korda will have a putt for the eagle. What a time for a piece of luck like that!
NELLY FOR EAGLE
Makes it! And the World No.1 and helped turned the top match around. That's a real body blow to Europe, especially after that shot from Corpuz. Wow.
CLASS FROM THOMPSON
Nothing like @Lexi at @TheSolheimCup 🤩 pic.twitter.com/gmgBdQZjUZSeptember 14, 2024
THAT SHOT
Nothing like @Lexi at @TheSolheimCup 🤩 pic.twitter.com/gmgBdQZjUZSeptember 14, 2024
USA DOMINATING BACK NINE
The putts are starting to roll in on the back nine for Team USA. Thompson and Coughlin have taken control of their match - the latter rolling in a 30-footer. Hall can't follow her in from half the distance and USA go 3UP in match 3.
CONCEDED EAGLE
Don't hear that often. 1UP goes to 2UP for Europe. Hull and Hen have breathing space in match 2.
Level at the top
Korda to keep the red on the board in the top match. Nope. Europe strike straight back in the top match. Match one is huge now.
EUROPE IN CLOSE
Right, let's stay focused on the top match. Par-3 16th. Pedersen plays a beauty, which just flies the bunker and comes to a stop 7 feet beyond the hole. Korda responds with a bit of a push. This is a very topsy-turvy match and it could be about to swing back in Europe's favour. Huge putts coming up.
SCORE UPDATE
It's tense...
Match 1: Corpuz/Korda (USA) vs Pedersen/Ciganda (Europe) A/S (15)
Match 2: Ewing/Kupcho (USA) vs Henseleit/Hull (Europe) EUR 2UP (14)
Match 3: Coughlin/Thompson (USA) vs Stark/Hall (Europe) USA 3UP (13)
Match 4: Vu/Schmelzel (USA) vs Nordqvist/Boutier (Europe) EUR 4UP (13)
HUGE MOMENTS
Corpuz with a lovely effort from 30 feet or so, slips by about 3 feet. Ciganda stalks her putt - it's to win the hole. She's certainly in no hurry. About 9-10 feet. That's a bit of a shocker than one - hits it 3 feet past.
Over on the 15th, Ewing holes a tramliner to win the hole and that match is back 1UP EUR through 15.
Right, back to Europe on the 16th. Pedersen punches the air. That was not easy. Korda follows her in from the same sort of distance and we head to the 17th all square in the top match.
CLUTCH PUTTING
SO clutch from @allymc10 👊 pic.twitter.com/LaeOdHIWkFSeptember 14, 2024
TOP MATCH ON 17
Europe safely about the 17th green but not threatening the hole. Kords looks to have pushed her approach but it rolls off the back slope and comes to kick-in range. USA could be about to go 1UP with one to play.
In the anchor match, Europe are 4UP with 4 to play. In the second match, Ally Ewing has just holed another monster. Charley Hull is in close and her partner ensures they stay 1UP.
USA 7-2 EUROPE
USA extend their lead. More to follow...
USA 1UP WITH 1 TO PLAY IN TOP MATCH
Ciganda will have felt like she had to make that on 17, races it by. Pedersen is faced with 12 feet for par and Corpuz is well inside that for birdie. Won't need to make it as Pedersen's effort goes wide.
FIRST BLOOD USA
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HULL WITH A COSTLY ERROR
Charley Hull goes long on 17and what a time to make an error like that - it will surely see that match go level down the last.
THIS AFTERNOON'S PAIRINGS
Saturday afternoon four-ball pairings at @TheSolheimCup 🏆 pic.twitter.com/PPKEJoihuYSeptember 14, 2024
USA HAVE TURNED IT AROUND
You have to tip your cap and say the US side have battled back on the back nine very impressively. Europe would now be happy to get out of here 2-2.
KORDA/CORPUZ COMPLETE COMEBACK
Korda has two putts from 15 feet. That's a 1UP win and the score is now 8-3. A poor finish from Europe in that one.
FOURBALL PAIRINGS
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Take a bow, Esther
USA now lead 8-3 and Europe are desperate for this final point. That is fantastic! Henseleit almost holes it. What a shot from the rookie. Hull won't need her putter.
THE SHOT THAT KEEPS EUROPEAN HOPES ALIVE
What a shot from the rookie 🙌Esther Henseleit with the perfect shot to snag the birdie at the 18th 💪 pic.twitter.com/fusl6vZYFMSeptember 14, 2024
A CUP OF TEA REQUIRED
That was eventful, right? 2-2. Nelly Korda is perhaps a surprising omission from the afternoon's fourballs. Hard to criticise the skipper when her team have produced the goods so far.
If Europe are to win this, they'll surely have to win this 3-1 or 4-0. I'm not sure another shared session would be good enough going into Sunday's singles. Right, here comes the afternoon's session.
Let's go again...
FOURBALLS UNDERWAY
The Nordqvist/Sagstrom, Alison Lee/Khang match is off, as is match 2. Sagstrom had a birdie for the win. It doesn't drop and it's a nice friendly half on the 1st.
JESSICA ALBA IN THE CROWD
Yesterday it was former US president, Barack Obama. Today we have Jessica Alba lending her support for the red, white and blue.
HOLE OUT!
We have a hole out. It's come in the top match. USA are 1UP. I'm sure we can bring you the 80-yarder shortly. Momentarily distracted by topless people celebrating on the fairways. Were they the caddies?
TOPS OFF? HMMM
Caddies celebrating with their tops off. Not sure about that one. In fact, I am. You're not part of the show, lads, and it's not a good look.
THE CELEBRATIONS
SHIRTS OFF FOR ALISON LEE'S HOLE OUT FROM THE FAIRWAY 😤💯 pic.twitter.com/VDmLUq8xR6September 14, 2024
USA, USA
The perfect start from USA in the afternoon's fourballs. They're head 1UP in the first two matches.
A word on the caddies
So you watch your opponent hole out from the fairway, Fine, great shot. Do you really want to see your opponents' caddies taking their tops off? Don't think that was on.
IT WAS A GREAT SHOT - NO DOUBT ABOUT THAT
Chaos at the Solheim! 😂😂😂pic.twitter.com/sGr3TBPwOZSeptember 14, 2024
LAST MATCH ON THE TEE
It's Hall and Hull versus Corpuz and Vu in the anchor match. USA already up in two. It's been a loud start from the hosts who will be looking to put this contest to bed this afternoon.
USA MAKE RAPID START - UP IN 3
A red hot start from Team USA, roars everywhere. That was a rather sorry putt from Ciganda. on the 1st. Europe haven't got going yet. Stacy Lewis will be delighted with how her team have started this afternoon.
Andrea Lee makes a hot start with successive birdies
Andrea Lee's USA pairing are two up after two holes after opening with successive 3s against Linn Grant and Celine Boutier who opened with pars. Her partner Rose Zhang is looking good with the putter too again after narrowly missing a lengthy birdie putt on the third just now.
ANOTHER long birdie for Andrea Lee to get 2 up through 2 🔥Things are heating up, tune in now on @GolfChannel 📺 pic.twitter.com/cr3Wii8TqmSeptember 14, 2024
ANOTHER PUTT HOLED BY USA from Ally Ewing
Ally Ewing has just holed for a birdie on the second leaving Europe struggling for a half. Emily Pedersen must hole for a half but it slides by despite being a lot closer than Ewing whose pairing is now two up through two.
HULL AND HALL REUNITED
It may be a tongue-twister for commentators but Charley Hull and Georgia Hall love playing together and they have been reunited in the final pair. They both found the sand off the tee on the first but made pars and are all square in the anchor match.
In the top match, both pairs birdie the par 5 fifth
Anna Nordqvist made a decent birdie on the fifth but Megan Khang, who must be USA's unofficial cheer-leader , made a 4 as well. Khang has been delighting the crowd here by whipping up their support.
Megan Khang throwing darts out here 🎯 pic.twitter.com/riizkrKWFXSeptember 14, 2024
BLUE ON THE BOARD IN THE BOTTOM MATCH
Georgia Hall just rolled in a downhill birdie putt on the second for a 3 and Europe are ahead in the anchor match against Corpuz and Vu.
EUROPE HALVE THE DEFICIT IN THIRD MATCH ON THE THIRD
Carlota Ciganda has just made a birdie on the third to cut Ally Ewing and Lexi Thompson's lead over her and Emily Pedersen to just one on the third hole.
USA HAVE TWO BALLS ON THE PAR 3 FOURTH
Ally Ewing and Lexi Thompson in the box seat on the par 3 fourth with two balls on the green versus just Emily Pedersen after Carlota Ciganda failed to find the putting surface.
CLUTCH PUTT FROM KHANG ON THE SIXTH TO KEEP USA AHEAD
With Europe in for four after missing a birdie putt, Megan Khang just drained a clutch six footer on the sixth for par to halve the hole. That keeps USA one up in the top match.
BIG PUTT FROM LILIA VU IN THE BOTTOM MATCH TO WIN HOLE
The anchor match is back to level after Lilia Vu drained a big birdie putt on the third to win the hole.
ALL four balls on the green at the par 3 fourth in the anchor match
Vu and Corpuz are both on the green above the hole in the final match while Hull and Hall are further away but below the hole and in similar spots to give each other a read. All four players walk off with par and the match remains all square.
BOUTIER AND GRANT HALVE ARREARS ON PAR 5 FIFTH
Boutier made a birdie on the fifth and Zhang missed a short downhill left to right putt for the halve. USA are now back to just one up in the second match.
KHANG MAKES BIRDIE ON PAR 4 7TH TO PUT USA BACK TO 2UP
Khang is high-fiving the crowds again after her third birdie on the seventh to put USA two up in the top match.
Megan Khang converts the birdie to extend the lead to 2 up 🔝 pic.twitter.com/ZLvXUDEvv0September 14, 2024
superb shot from Andrea Lee into seventh green
Lee, whose pairing is one up through six holes, has just fired her approach from the fairway in very close at the par four seventh. Boutier has tried to respond with a 7iron but she is twice as far as Lee from the pin and it is advantage USA. Linn Grant only has 110 yards in but is also further away than Lee.
Andrea Lee is on fire today and nails her approach on 7 🎯 pic.twitter.com/Gs2wfJuEz1September 14, 2024
CHARLEY HULL MAKES BIRDIE ON THE PAR 5 FIFTH
Hull holes out for a birdie four at the par 5 fifth, leaving Vu with a must make to keep the match level but she misses and Europe are one up in the anchor match.
LINN GRANT WITH A FINE BIRDIE ON THE SEVENTH
Classic matchplay at the seventh where Linn Grant made a fine birdie from distance with both Americans in close before Andrea Lee makes her birdie and the USA remain one up.
LEXI HAS JUST CHIPPED IN ON THE SIXTH
Drama on the sixth where Carlota Ciganda made a birdie with a fine putt across the green before Lexi Thompson chipped in for a birdie from the fringe so USA remain one up through six holes.
LEXI THOMPSON CHIPS IN FROM THE EDGE OF THE BUNKER 🤯 pic.twitter.com/rdAS7lVjHoSeptember 14, 2024
USA TAKING A STRANGLEHOLD IN THE TOP MATCH
Alison Lee's birdie on the par five eighth has put USA three up in the top match as they head to the par 3 ninth where Anna Nordqvist looks to have hit it closest for Europe but all four balls are on the putting surface. Europe are both in for par and it is going to be a half as USA remain 3 up at the turn.
Carlota Ciganda WITH A SECOND SUCCESSIVE BIRDIE
Carlota Ciganda has just made a second successive birdie 3 on the seventh and the third match with Emily Pedersen is now tied after previously being two down after two to Ewing and Thompson.
ROSE ZHANG WITH A BIRDIE TO PUT HER PAIRING TWO UP
Rose Zhang's putter just did the business again on the par 5 eighth where she has made a birdie four to win the hole and put USA two up in the second match.
Madelene Sagstrom stiffs superb approach at the 10th
Madelene Sagstrom was posing on her second shot at the par 4 10th which she has fired into to about four foot from distance. She will be last to putt but USA also have a ball in relatively close. Europe need to win this hole you feel to get it back from three down and they do from Anna Nordqvist's birdie to make it two down.
ADVANTAGE BOUTIER ON THE NINTH
Europe have two balls on the ninth in the second match with Boutier in close and her partner Grant also on the putting surface. At two down through eight holes, this could be a chance for Europe to get a hole back but Boutier's birdie effort slides by.
Anna Nordqvist's putting has been exceptional but Khang is something else!
The Swedish pro has just drained a big birdie putt across the green on the 11th before Khang follows her in after a crazy putt which hung on the lip for several seconds before toppling in. Cue wild celebrations as USA remain two up. But that could be controversial as there was a good wait before the ball dropped.
WAIT FOR IT... WAIT FOR IT... 💥 pic.twitter.com/2Cvj52GBdySeptember 14, 2024
Andrea Lee and Rose Zhang extend their lead
Lee and Zhang have extended their lead to three up at the par four 10 where Andrea Lee trickled in a putt from 10 feet for a birdie. Unless something dramatic happens, it is likely USA will win the top two matches and that puts a lot of pressure on Europe to win the last two games on the course which are currently all square.
corpuz and VU HIT THE NINTH AFTER BIRDIE TO WIN EIGHTH
Allisen Corpuz's birdie on the par 5 eighth has levelled the match and tShe and Vu have then put both their tee shots at the par 3 ninth on the green. Hull has meanwhile overshot the green but Hall gets on to the green with a good bounce.
ROSE ZHANG AND ANDREA LEE ARE 4 UP AND RACING TO THE FINISH LINE
Rose Zhang and Andrea Lee are looking very good for victory in the second match with a four up lead after 11 holes. This time the duo birdied the par 3 11th as they continue to keep the pedal to the floor against Boutier and Grant.
LEXI DELIVERS IN HER SEVENTH SOLHEIM
Lexi Thompson holes a decent birdie and fist-pumps on the 10th in her tight, all-square game with Ally Ewing against Ciganda and Pedersen. But Europe follow her in as Ciganda holes out and the game remains all-square.
CIGANDA IS PLAYING WELL BUT WALKING A TIGHT LINE OVER HER PACE OF PLAY
Ciganda , fresh from walking in an important birdie putt on the 10th, has followed that up with a fine tee shot at the par 3 11th to leave a short birdie putt but Ewing then puts her ball inside it. Quality golf at the 131-yard hole but the hole is halved in pars.
USA CAPTAIN LEWIS BEEN GIVING ADVICE ON THE PAR 3s
Stacy Lewis is driving on her side, she has been very visible and just said: "We got some red on the board early. The team know no lead is safe in the Solheim Cup and we need to get as many points as we can going into tomorrow."
HULL AND HALL LOOKING TO SCRAMBLE A win ON THE 10TH
Vu has a horrible putt from the back of the green on the 10th which she is unable to get close as Corpuz makes a par instead, leaving Hull and Hall with a chance to get a win when they looked to be in trouble. She makes it and Europe are one up in the bottom match.
HULL AND HALL ON THE PAR 3 11TH
Hull and Hall have both hit the green with Hall having a decent uphill birdie putt. Allisen Corpuz and Lilia Vu are both above the hole and we will have a shoot-out. USA fail to make a birdie and Europe have two chances to win the hole which they fail to convert.
NOW THREE SHOTS HOLED BY THE USA TODAY!
First it was Alison Lee holing out, then Lexi Thompson chipped in and now Andrea Lee has holed out from the sand for a birdie at the 13th. That will put USA five up with five holes left as Boutier attempt at the half slides by.
ANDREA LEE CHIPS IN FROM THE BUNKER TO GO 5 UP 🤯 pic.twitter.com/wuYhi4PqO3September 14, 2024
THE THIRD MATCH REMAINS SO TIGHT
All square through 12 holes for Carlota Ciganda and Emily Pedersen after Pedersen makes a birdie on the par 5 to cancel out Lexi Thompson's.
Rose Zhang in close on the par 14th as USA on brink of first point
Both Europeans Grant and Boutier are on the par 5 14th in two but Zhang is in even closer and a half will give USA their first point of the day as they are five up. Europe need a miracle in this match. Grant and Boutier have both missed their eagle attempts and Zhang will close it out with two putts from eight feet.... Done, eagle to win it. USA 9-4
WINNING PAIR LEE AND ZHANG DISCUSS THEIR WIN
Lee said: "I think we both played incredible golf today, super solid. We both made a lot of putts and we had so much fun out there." Zhang added: "Every single hole I didn't play well in Andrea stepped it up and vice versa, it was just a good time."
USA CLAIM THE TOP MATCH AS MEGAN KHANG AND ALISON LEE TRIUMPH
Alison Lee and Megan Khang have closed out victory in their first game over Anna Nordqvist and Madelene Sagstrom. Lee, who holed out earlier as their caddies removed their shirts, said: "It is definitely one of the coolest moments of my life and my career. We celebrated just the way we wanted to." Khang added: "I have had a little too much fun and you can tell by my voice. What an electric start to the day. We are just here having a good time and really embracing the fans."
Alison Lee cashed in on this bet real quick 😂@alisonlee | @SolheimCupUSA pic.twitter.com/KPZcP3GytRSeptember 14, 2024
HULL IN CLOSE ON 13 AS EUROPE LOOK TO EXTEND THEIR LEAD
Good shot into the par 4 13th by Charley Hull after Dame Laura Davies just stressed the importance of Europe winning both the remaining matches on the course but Lilia Vu is also in close for USA in the anchor match as Hull and Vu halve the hole in birdies.
ALL THE PLAYERS AND CAPTAINS AROUND 14TH GREEN
You know a match is tight and vital when both captains and most of the players are around the green like here on the par 5 14th. Pedersen , Ciganda and Thompson have all missed birdie putts as Europe look to extend their slender one hole lead. That leaves Ewing with a putt to win it and she misses too from around four-five feet. Europe stay one up. This is tense.
Allisen Corpuz with a superb approach to the par 5 14th
Allisen Corpuz is in close with an eagle look on the 14th as USA look to halve the arrears which stand at two-down. Hull is pin high but in the rough.
HALL MAKES BIRDIE ON THE 14TH
Georgia Hall is down for a 4 on the par 5 14th after a clutch putt which could help ensure Europe stay two ahead as Corpuz pushes her eagle attempt and the hole is halved despite USA being in the box seat.
Allisen Corpuz with an excellent chance for eagle 🦅Tune in now on NBC to catch the final matches of Saturday! 📺 pic.twitter.com/6xkeLDapdkSeptember 14, 2024
Both europeans ON THE 15TH in two
Ciganda and Pedersen have a chance to extend their lead on the 15th where they are both on the green in two. Thompson is effectively out of the hole and Ewing is on her own as she tentatively plays up short with her third. Pedersen now has a chance to win the hole which she makes to put Europe two up with three to play.
Emily Pedersen was LOCKED in for this birdie to go 2 Up 👊 pic.twitter.com/DMY1TKB1Y5September 14, 2024
PEDERSEN FOLLOWS UP HER BIRDIE WITH FINE TEE SHOT ON 16
Impressive play from Pedersen whose birdie put Europe 2up. She has then stuck her tee shot in close at the par 3 16th but Lexi Thompson drills her tee shot inside it with a 7iron from 162 yards for USA and converts it for a birdie to win the hole. Europe are now one up with two to play.
IN THE ANCHOR MATCH, HULL IS ON THE PAR 4 15TH IN TWO
Hull is looking to take a big step towards winning the match on the par 4 15th after finding the green in two. Vu is over the back but a half is the likeliest outcome which occurs leaving Europe 2up with three to play.
EUROPEANS HALL AND HULL ARE BOTH ON THE PAR 3 16TH
But the duo are a long way from the flag after their shots came up short and both USA's tee shots have run up much closer which will give them hope but the hole is halved in par.
BRILLIANT SHOT TO 17TH BY Emily Pedersen TO SET UP WIN
Emily Pedersen has really stepped up down the stretch here in the third match to put Europe on the brink of victory. Her superb approach to the 17th looks like a kick in birdie which should be conceded and should be enough to win the match with Europe one up but Ewing and Thompson could take it down the last if they drain their 18 footers. Ewing misses and so does Thompson. 10-5
HALL AND HULL BOTH ON THE 17TH FAIRWAY OFF THE TEE
Europe are two up with two play in the bottom game and Hall and Hull have both hit the fairway.
PEDERSEN AND CIGANDA DISCUSS THEIR WIN
Pedersen said: "I felt if we keep plodding away then the putts will drop and thankfully they did." Ciganda added: "we did so well and stayed in the moment after losing the first two holes."
TOIN COSS ON 17TH TO SEE HOW PLAYS IN FIRST
The drives on the 17th were so close, the match referee did a coin toss to see who went first with Europe two up with two to play. Allisen Corpuz plays in first to around 18 feet. Charley Hull then just clears the trap and rolls to about 12 feet. Hall is also on the green and has a putt for the match.
CORPUZ Holes TO KEEP MATCH ALIVE
Allisen Corpuz needs to hole her birdie putt to keep this anchor match alive on the 17th where Europe are two up. Vu had a chip for a birdie but it rolled past the hole. Hull is in close and Hall has just made a par. Corpuz holes her gutsy effort and now Hull has a putt for the match which is short and left and frankly poor.
EUROPE ARE ONE UP WITH ONE TO PLAY ON THE 18TH IN ANCHOR MATCH
What a birdie that was from Allisen Corpuz to keep the match alive on the 17th. A stunned Hull then hit a poor putt in response. Hull and Hall are now heading the last with a slender one up lead.
WALK THAT IN ALLISEN 📢With that birdie she's extended the match and we're taking you to 18 on @GolfChannel 🫣 pic.twitter.com/LiddxgZBImSeptember 14, 2024
HULL BOOMS DRIVE OVER BUNKERS ON 18TH
Hull is in the 'Mayor's Office' on the 18th after a big drive while Corpuz, Vu and Hall have played more conservative lines up the right side of the fairway. Corpuz's approach has then gone towards the back of the green and Vu has come up short in the sand. A 4 is likely to win for Europe here.
THAT SHOULD DO IT FOR EUROPE IN THE FINAL MATCH
Hall has just fired in an approach in close at the 18th and Hull is also on the green close to the pin with Europe needing just a half to guarantee a one up victory in this anchor match. If Vu fails to hole from the sand or if Corpuz misses her long putt then I imagine they will concede.
CORPUZ'S LONG BIRDIE SLIDES BY AND USA CONCEDE FINAL GAME
The final match finally finishes with Europe 2up to make it 10-6 going into the singles after Corpuz fails to make birdie as Hall and Hull win.
THIRD AND FINAL DAY
It's Singles Sunday at the Solheim Cup! Team USA is already very close to a first victory since 2017 as they lead 10-6 after performing incredibly well over the first two days.
Stacy Lewis is not taking anything for granted on the final day, however, and has named a particularly strong line-up to ensure the result is over as quickly as possible. Nelly Korda will take on Charley Hull in the first match at 8:50am before the likes of Megan Khang and Rose Zhang feature in the first five.
With USA only needing 4.5 points to regain the Solheim Cup, there is a very real possibility that Lexi Thompson scores the winning point in what could be her final team event as a player. The 29-year-old goes out against Celine Boutier in match seven.
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WHO HAS BEEN SOLHEIM CUP MVP?
The answer to that question is quite a difficult one ahead of the Singles matches because there are five unbeaten Americans and three who can boast a 100% record from three matches. Nelly Korda, Lauren Coughlin, and Rose Zhang are likely the host's leading contenders for Solheim Cup MVP.
Meanwhile, only three Europeans have two points and none of Suzann Pettersen's roster is undefeated. Anna Nordqvist leads the way on two points from three matches, with both Charley Hull and Emily Pedersen owning a 2-2-0 record.
Here is how many points each player has won at the 2024 Solheim Cup.
10 MINUTES TO GO
We're moments away from Sunday Singles beginning with Nelly Korda against Charley Hull, and the crowd at RTJ is in full voice and packed to the rafters. The excitement and expectation levels are palpable. Chants of U-S-A, U-S-A are drowning out the European Oles...
PLAYERS ON THE TEE
Nelly Korda skips onto the first tee with arms pumping and whipping up the crowd as she twists and turns around. She is buzzing for this.
Meanwhile, Charley Hull strolls out alongside her caddie with a steely determination in her eyes. Game face on.
We're about to get going. Will it be the Comeback Near The Capital or are USA destined to make it Solheim Cup No.11? Let's find out.
Let’s GOOOOOOOO @NellyKorda is HERE AND READY 😮💨 pic.twitter.com/B2B7BJZ4bUSeptember 15, 2024
TEE SHOTS AWAY
Hull has the honor and pumps her drive just a little long and left into the rough, but it should be more than possible to find the green from there.
Nelly Korda, however, is in HUGE trouble straight away. The World No.1 pulled her drive so far left, it was seen skipping through the trees and into the darkness beyond. Definitely advantage Europe after one shot each.
...and the first Sunday match is off 😈Catch @HullCharley and @NellyKorda on @GolfChannel now! pic.twitter.com/gtEqXlfZsBSeptember 15, 2024
KORDA'S POWERS OF RECOVERY
Hull finds the first greenside bunker to the right from the left rough, with the pin also on the front right.
Korda's second shot is from the rough down the left of the second hole! She's got a decision to make regarding whether she goes under or over the line of trees some 50 yards in front.
Korda fires a stinger low and catches it so well, it rockets through the green and into the rough over the back. Her golf ball seems to have collided with the crowd, although it was nice and low and the power had been taken out via the longer grass so it's not too bad.
GAME TWO UNDERWAY
Back on the first tee, Emily Pedersen drives towards a similar position that Hull was in, down the left rough. Khang's drive appears to be pretty good, too.
KORDA SAVES PAR
A classy bunker shot from Hull dribbles to a couple of feet from the hole, and that's conceded for par. Meanwhile, Korda received a break in the form of her lie out of the rough. She clipped a chip to three or four feet and was asked to putt out for par. No problems there, and it remains all square in match one.
Match 17 is tied going through No. 1 🤝 pic.twitter.com/8ID2gmRRR9September 15, 2024
KHANG AND HULL GO ONE UP
No messing around from Megan Khang. She birdies the first from 10 feet or so, confidently stroking her golf ball up the hill.
Game three - between Alison Lee and Georgia Hall - sees a couple of absolute pearlers off the tee. They will both have chances to set up an opening birdie.
Heading forward to the second, Korda drops a wedge shot in close but can't convert the short putt. Hull just about betters it and is successful to move one up in the opening match!
A beautiful birdie for @megan_khang1023 to get 1 Up through No. 1 😮💨Tune in on @GolfChannel pic.twitter.com/On5Gd319U4September 15, 2024
KHANG 2UP THROUGH TWO
The story of the early holes are missed putts, rather than made ones. Alison Lee sees her par effort drift by at the first and Georgia Hall goes one up.
At the second, Pedersen three putts from range to gift Khang an early two-up lead.
HULL REMAINS ONE UP
Hull - who always leaves the flagstick in - rams her 10-foot putt home on the third to save par and remain one up on Korda. The Englishwoman has started well with the flatstick.
EUROPE CREATING EARLY CHANCES
Moments after Ciganda and Zhang begin match five, Anna Nordqvist cannot take advantage of a mid-range par putt to win the first against Allisen Corpuz. The Swede trickles it up the hill, but it fails to break right and they both walk off with a bogey. All square.
Even though Europe are only up in two so far, Pettersen's side have come out positively and have given themselves chances to win holes already.
DAMAGE CONTROL FOR PEDERSEN
Pedersen - facing the prospect of going three down through three holes - just about sinks her par putt to remain two down against Khang. Pedersen's ball did a full 360 (and then some) around the edge of the hole before dropping. That should settle the Dane down.
Using all of the cup to avoid going 3-down thru 3 😅Watch now on @GolfChannel! pic.twitter.com/8vnZGxRYTOSeptember 15, 2024
MAGIC SPANISH HANDS
Ciganda whips up a delightful bunker shot and leaves her ball a matter of inches from the hole to pile the pressure on Zhang. The American is unable to respond by sinking her own par putt, and there is another splash of blue on the board.
Georgia Hall has gone two up against Alison Lee early on, while Corpuz nudges in front of Nordqvist after a delightful approach shot on hole no.2 which spun back to tap-in range.
With five matches having completed at least one hole, Europe are up in three and the USA up in two.
Matching birdies on the 3rd 🔥The golf is good.Watch now on @GolfChannel! pic.twitter.com/kI92fPkBBcSeptember 15, 2024
LEXI ON THE TEE
Match no.7 today is ready to begin. A smiling Lexi Thompson emerges to an extra later of support from the fans surrounding the tee box. She didn't quite bounce around like some of her teammates, preferring to stay composed, but the 29-year-old was clearly enjoying the moment.
This could be her very last Solheim Cup match ever after announcing plans to retire from a full-time pro golf schedule at the end of the season.
Opponent Celine Boutier is completely locked in and blasts her drive into the A1 spot down the middle, just around the corner from that pesky fairway bunker. Speaking of, the sand takes in Thompson's drive.
SILVER MEDALLIST MAKES GOLDEN START
Europe's Olympic silver medallist, Esther Henseleit rolls in a lovely long-range birdie putt on the first to go one up on Andrea Lee.
Up ahead, Korda sneaks a birdie putt of her own home to peg Hull back.
USA lead in two, Europe ahead in three. One match all square.
To tie the match 👀@NellyKorda and @HullCharley are tied thru 5 holes at @TheSolheimCup Watch now on @GolfChannel! pic.twitter.com/XuHkFdegTESeptember 15, 2024
HALL ON A ROLL
Georgia Hall is on fire! The Englishwoman drills another birdie in on the fourth, and she's now three in front. Meanwhile, Ciganda and Zhang are tied again after the Spaniard fails to convert from 12 feet.
STARK'S TOUGH TEST
Maja Stark has possibly the toughest test of any European today. She faces rookie Lauren Coughlin who not only is 3-0-0 so far, she is yet to trail in any match either. Based on the first-tee drives, though, it's advantage Stark as Coughlin finds the rough while Stark is in the shorter grass.
Just ahead, Thompson goes one down to Boutier after failing to land her par putt.
HULL BACK IN FRONT IN TOP MATCH
Following a mistake from Nelly, Charley Hull tidies up for par and asks her opponent to respond via a tricky downhill slider from just inside 15 feet. In a bid to make it, Korda struck her par putt a little harder than she might have liked and it misses on the high side. Hull back in front. This game is going to be special.
COUGHLIN TRAILS FOR FIRST TIME IN 2024
Ever heard of the commentator's curse? Well, further proof that it might be real as Maja Stark goes one up against Lauren Coughlin. The American asked Stark to putt from very short range, so that could set the tone for that match. Watch out later on...
Thompson has tied it up against Boutier after the second hole. The scoring is really starting to move along now!
Count it! 👏@Lexi ties the match on the second hole pic.twitter.com/eqKuuB29MtSeptember 15, 2024
NORDQVIST DUNKS IT FROM THE FAIRWAY
Two down and treading water, Anna Nordqvist turns the tide on Allisen Corpuz via a stunning approach shot that takes two bounces and drops in! In response, Corpuz leaves her own approach about two feet away. Tough sledding, but a great effort from the American.
ANNA NORDQVIST WITH THE HOLE OUT FROM THE FAIRWAY! 🇪🇺 pic.twitter.com/FqIvBrgc1LSeptember 15, 2024
HULL LEADING EUROPEAN CHARGE
Korda misses the green with a 9-iron and leaves Hull two putts to move two in front. She duly walks right through the door of opportunity via some sensible golf, nestling her first putt to within a couple of feet.
But on a brighter note for Stacy Lewis and co., Zhang is now 2up on Ciganda after just about squeezing her birdie putt over the edge and Thompson is about to go in front against Celine Boutier as a result of a superb approach on three.
Another win for @HullCharley 🇪🇺She's 2-Up over @NellyKorda at @TheSolheimCup pic.twitter.com/km1RMhJsZESeptember 15, 2024
EARLY LOOK AT THE SCORES
How the board currently stands at @TheSolheimCup 👇Watch now on @GolfChannel! pic.twitter.com/5ckUphjZGsSeptember 15, 2024
USA FINDING A FOOTHOLD ON FOUR
The fourth hole is proving to be quite fruitful for the Americans. Andrea Lee birdies it to tie Henseleit, moments after Zhang had extended her advantage against Ciganda on the same hole.
Thompson, back on the third, converts her short birdie chance to move in front against Boutier.
TAP-INS ON TWO
The back-right pin position and surrounding slope on the second hole is seeing a lot of concessions today. Lilia Vu is the latest player to take advantage of the kind conditions, and she is almost certain to go 1up versus Albane Valenzuela unless the Swiss golfer can find the target from some 30 feet. She can't, and it's advantage Vu.
Are you serious Lilia Vu?! 🤯What a shot! 👏 pic.twitter.com/OzWFpNSqZbSeptember 15, 2024
RED HOT
Oohh, Lexi Thompson - that is sublime! The American icon brushes a putt in from miles out on the fourth. Rose Zhang is now three up on Ciganda through five after her own monster putt. The tide has turned once more and the USA lead in five matches, with only one still to tee off.
From a European point of view, Hull and Hall have both gone further in front. Hull is three up on Korda after the World No.1 stabs at a short-range putt and Hull is four up on Alison Lee following a similar situation from the latter. Europe lead in three, with two matches tied.
Bang‼️@Lexi came to play on Sunday in her 7th Solheim Cup! pic.twitter.com/WeAppVxBtNSeptember 15, 2024
MATCH 12 IS UNDERWAY
All 12 matches are out on course and we are right in the thick of it now. Linn Grant is in a decent position down the first while Jennifer Kupcho has gone so far left, she's on the fairway. Unfortunately for her, it is the second fairway. It'll be awkward, but Kupcho is perfectly capable of finding the green still.
LATE BLUE-MERS
Sagstrom is in front against Sarah Schmelzel early on, as is Leona Maguire - the player who had not missed a session before Friday. This is only her second appearance at RTJ, but she'll be looking to make it a winning one regardless.
Matches 10 and 11 are going Europe's way.
KORDA ESCAPES FOUR DOWN PUNISHMENT
Hull misses a chance to move 4up on Korda through 10 holes after watching the American miss left on the same line. Hull has putted really well through the front nine, but Korda was three over and not playing anywhere near as well.
Meanwhile, Hull's friend and teammate Georgia Hall is almost on the end of a hole-in-one from Alison Lee. TV pictures show her pitchmark just inches away from the hole.
A clinical tee shot for @alisonlee She has a chance to birdie to help close the gap 💪 pic.twitter.com/7qWYBeEQwZSeptember 15, 2024
SHORT MISS FROM HENSELEIT
The German has just lipped out from close range to fall 1 down thru 6 to Andrea Lee.
Ally Ewing has just birdied 3 to move back to AS with Maguire.
USA currently on course for 7.5 points - they only need 4.5.
Still lots of golf to be played, though.
HULL CLOSING IN ON VICTORY
There was an escape for Korda on the previous hole, but it appears as though the writing is on the wall for the American as Hull drives another putt home on the 11th. She is now four up with seven holes to play. It feels like just a matter of time with this match.
KHANG IN CONTROL
Emily Pedersen has played all five sessions so far, and it appears to be showing as Khang moves four up through 10 holes. The Dane looks downbeat and tired, not the ideal combination (as many amateurs might well know!).
CORPUZ COSTLY THREE-PUTT
Corpuz three-putts on the ninth and hands Nordqvist an avenue back into that match. The European is just one down now.
Meanwhile, the top three matches are four up in either direction - two in favor of the blue-and-yellows and one in favor of the Red, White, and Blue.
In the bottom match, Jennifer Kupcho is 3up on Linn Grant through three holes. Coughlin is now three down on Stark through six holes.
Ultimately, USA leads in seven and Europe in five. No ties at the moment.
MINI US FIGHTBACK
Alison Lee pulls a hole back at the 10th as a result of an excellent lag putt from herself and a missed short one by Hall. Lee is only three down now.
In Thompson's match against Boutier, the American drains another stunner from a different zip code to move 2up through seven. She is putting so well today, so well. If it all stays this way, Thompson will collect the winning point, too. What a moment that would be...
Huge putt for Lexi to go 2up on Celine Boutier.As things stand, she's on course to hole the winning putt. pic.twitter.com/5f52gAJ33iSeptember 15, 2024
WIN SNATCHED FROM JAWS OF DEFEAT
At the par-3 11th, Georgia Hall is staring down the barrel of another hole defeat following an excellent tee shot by Lee. However, Hall sinks a tough birdie putt down the hill while Lee pushes her six-foot birdie putt wide and somehow the European wins it.
Moments later, Ciganda moves just two down at the turn against Zhang after holing a mid-range putt.
MIDDLE MATCHES PROVING DECISIVE
Schmelzel holes a tough left-to-right downhill putt to put pressure on Sagstrom, and the Swede duly feels it - pushing her tying effort just to the right of the hole. Schmelzel is only one down in one of the later matches. For both teams, though, the result is being decided in the middle portion of the Sunday singles - a section of matches which is currently exclusively red.
HULL MOVES TO DORMIE FIVE
Hull has been outstanding today and is now right on the precipice of closing out Europe's first point in the top match. Reflecting the story of their match so far, Korda putts close but not close enough while Hull rolls her golf ball home from range to win the hole. She's five up with five to play.
On a similar note, Megan Khang is now five up on Pedersen with six to play. She has been incredible has Khang. A stand-out contender for the MVP.
LEE CHIPS AWAY AT HALL
Alison Lee chips in off the back of the 12th green to send the American fans into raptures. As the commentary team noted, her putter hasn't really cooperated today, so that's one way to get around the issue! Hall is three up through 12 holes.
Elsewhere, Henseleit is back to A/S against Andrea Lee through nine holes after recently being two down. She's part of that crucial passage for the Europeans.
Are you kidding?! @alisonlee chips this is in for eagle 🦅 pic.twitter.com/LQPhnjc5j3September 15, 2024
HULL WINS 6&4 OVER KORDA
Charley Hull has wrapped Europe's first point of the day up and put a bow on it via one of the shots of the week! From a fair way out on the 14th, Hull sends her approach shot to the back of the green and watches on as it sweeps around and back towards the hole, coming to rest at kick-in range. Korda all-but matches Hull, but it's not enough and the concession swiftly follows. It's a 6&4 victory for Hull and Team Europe.
While she will be delighted, a quick look at the overall scoreboard does not make happy reading from a European point of view.
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KHANG WINS 6&5 OVER PEDERSEN
As quickly as Europe reach seven points, USA make it to 11 through Megan Khang's brilliance. The 26-year-old was imperious this week and wraps up the perfect Solheim Cup with a 6&5 success against Emily Pedersen. The hosts now only need 3.5 points with a sea of red on the board.
HULL ON VICTORY
Charley Hull spoke to Sky Sports' Sarah Stirk immediately after her victory over Nelly Korda.
She said: "Well, I knew that you had to play unbelievable to beat her, and to beat Nelly, she’s a great player, and I played my -- well, my heart out, and I shot -- I think I was like 7-under through -- I don’t know how many holes we played. I did what I had to do, and yeah, it was a pretty cool moment."
Asked how she responded so well to so much pressure, Hull replied: "I just love playing under pressure. I absolutely love it. That’s why I always feel like I play well in the majors. I love big events, playing in front of crowds, and on hard tough golf courses. That’s something I just love doing."
HENSELEIT FIGHTS BACK
Esther Henseleit is on a real run for the Europeans, winning the most recent four holes to go two up. At the par-3 11th, Andrea Lee found the water left and that allowed the German to pick up an easy hole victory.
Her teammate, Madelene Sagstrom has also turned the tide on Sarah Schmelzel and is one up through eight holes. The final third of the singles matches are just starting to return in favor of the visitors.
ZHANG WITHIN TOUCHING DISTANCE
Zhang and Thompson are both heading towards sealing full points for the USA.
Zhang is now five holes in front of Ciganda and Thompson has retained her three-up lead on Boutier via a missed putt from the Frenchwoman and a strong two-putt from the American.
As it stands, the projected final score will be 16-12. Europe need to turn around a sizeable US lead quickly down the back nine. The USA will feel this is still too close.
TENSE IN MATCH SIX
Andrea Lee is back to within one against Esther Henseleit on the par-5 12th. The German had a chance to tie it, but her ball circumnavigated the hole and stayed above ground. That match is back to 1up in favor of the European.
GEORGIA HALL DEFEATS ALISON LEE 4&3
Georgia Hall follows her mate Charley Hull by winning Europe's next point via a 4&3 success over Alison Lee. That match was rarely in doubt after a blistering start by the Englishwoman, and Europe have taken another small step towards their target.
A convincing win for Georgia Hall 🇪🇺#TeamEurope | #SolheimCup pic.twitter.com/LoeYkLkh57September 15, 2024
CORPUZ PUTS THE HAMMER DOWN
Those who have waited for golf to reach the 14th hole have just been duly rewarded by Corpuz's massive birdie putt - both in stature and distance. She is now 4up on Nordqvist with four holes to play. Another step closer for Stacy Lewis' team.
ZHANG DEFEATS CIGANDA 6&4
Oh wow, the 15th hole - with its slope down towards the left-hand pin location - is making for some serious hero shots today. Rose Zhang is the latest player to send a fantastic approach shot close.
Zhang struck her ball into the heart of the green with a 5-wood, and it took a sharp left turn before trundling its way down to just below the hole. Ciganda fails with her eagle chance, and that's point No.12 for the USA!
On a personal note for Zhang, she has gone 4-0-0 this week. Another MVP contender.
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BOUTIER IN CLOSE ON 13
In a pivotal match down the stretch, Celine Boutier is trying her hardest to deny Lexi Thompson a fairytale finish at RTJ. Down by two, Boutier sends an exquisite approach to tap-in range on the 13th. If the visitors can turn that one around, it would set up a scintillating climax.
CORPUZ DEFEATS NORDQVIST 4&3
Corpuz pushes her country to within 1.5 points after a relatively serene trip around Virginia this afternoon. Nordqvist can't land her tying putt on the 15th, and that's a wrap for the fifth match today.
ZHANG REACTS TO 6&4 WIN OVER CIGANDA
Explaining her immediate reaction to sealing a convincing victory, Zhang said: "I was really excited. Carlota is such an incredible player and I saw her clinch that Cup last year. I was really just looking forward to coming out here and seeing what I could measure up. Turns out the day was great, and I’m glad to be gaining a point for Team USA.
"I just feel like the Solheim Cup reignited my passion for the game, and it was so fun to see so many people out here supporting. My teammates have been incredible. We’ve been having so much fun, not only off the golf course but even on it. It’s just been an incredible ride. I’m very thankful to be in this position and excited to cheer the team on."
GRANT FIGHTING BACK
Jennifer Kupcho was 3up against Linn Grant in the bottom match but is now just one hole in front after the Swede has fought back supremely well. Having just started the back nine, that one has a fair way to go, and it could be crucial in ultimately deciding who wins the Solheim Cup.
SCHMELZEL DRAWS ALONGSIDE SAGSTROM
This match has been nip and tuck the whole day so far, and a huge putt from the American on the 12th means it is tied once again. Six holes to play and momentum with the host player.
STATE OF PLAY
With seven matches still left to be completed, USA are now only winning in one... However, they are tied in three and that will be enough as it stands. Grant has recovered from three down against Kupcho to tie it. Boutier has just missed an eagle chance on the 14th to tie the match.
Projected score is currently USA 15 Europe 13
STARK DUNKS IT IN THE DRINK
Maja Stark has made a critical error at the par-5 14th! The European player pulled a horror shot out of the bag at the worst possible time, stuffing her approach into the water.
Coughlin was mightily unlucky not to see her ball trickle down towards the hole after finding dry land, but it matters not after Stark fails to make her par putt. Tied through 14.
BOUTIER TIES THOMPSON LATE ON
Boutier has not had her best stuff this week, but the recent Major winner has shown some outstanding guts to tie Thompson with a birdie at the 15th. Earlier, it was looking as though the 29-year-old might well score the winning point. Now, it could be the turning point in Thompson's nightmare.
ANDREA LEE SINKS HUGE PUTT
In case you'd forgotten, there is a 16th hole out there. It's a par-3 fraught with danger. Andrea Lee makes the most of its existence by drilling a stunning tee shot to 15 feet. She then tips her birdie putt in.
Esther Henseleit cannot follow suit and we're all tied with just two to play. This is unbelievable stuff! USA are set to crawl over the line by the barest of margins...
OFF THE PIN FROM HENSELEIT
Henseleit sends her approach into the 12th and it crashes off the flagstick! The ball bounces away to 20-25 feet instead of the 10-12 it might well have if there had been no contact from the pin.
MATCH SIX GOING DOWN 18 TIED
Henseleit was about to settle down over a long-range putt on the 17th before a bug disturbed her and she backed away. Once the German finally settled, she left her birdie putt woefully short. But, in an extraordinary show of resilience, Henseleit rolled her par putt in on the very right edge. Superb.
In response, Lee dragged her own birdie putt left before tidying up for par. We're going down 18 all square!
SCHMELZEL TO THE RESCUE?
Schmelzel could be the hero for Team USA. She's just drained a long effort on the 15th to tie her match with Sagstrom. Meanwhile, Valenzuela is now 2up against Lilia Vu after the World No.2 fails with her par putt.
This match continues to swing this way and that. Especially surprising given it was all but over a couple of hours ago...
HENSELEIT AND LEE END ALL SQUARE
Henseleit sends her 95-yard pitch shot just below the hole and it spins back a touch, leaving her a 10-foot putt for birdie and - potentially - the win. Andrea Lee is right at the back of the green and is looking at a monster putt after hacking out of the rough. This will go down as an all-timer if it drops. It doesn't, and the door is open for Henseleit.
She can't walk through it, though, and makes the cardinal error of leaving her birdie putt short! Lee brushes in from four feet, and it's a half point each. That could be massive for the USA.
ADVANTAGE BOUTIER
Thompson was not in a great position in the right rough and - despite the ol' Lexi Lean being on display - the end result was pretty good. Her ball bounced along the left edge of the green and rolled marginally back towards the flag.
But hold on, now. Boutier has flicked a beautiful wedge into no more than five feet. You'd fancy the French player to make that. This appears to be all down to Thompson, and she's putted really well today.
It could be a US victory, or it could be one step closer for the unlikeliest of comebacks...
BOUTIER DEFEATS THOMPSON 1UP
Thompson's putt never had a chance. It was pushed right and she knew it straight away. Celine Boutier was three down through 11 holes, but at the final moment, she goes in front and wins a massive point for Team Europe. Unbelievable.
A big win for Boutier 🇪🇺#TeamEurope | #SolheimCup pic.twitter.com/nfwzcOLzbBSeptember 15, 2024
HOME GIRL COULD WIN IT
Lauren Coughlin was trailing Maja Stark not too long ago, but after a tidy approach into the 18th, she could be the one to wrap the Solheim Cup up. Coughlin hadn't been behind at any point before the first hole. While that record might be over, she could end up in front at the best possible time.
Stark is in a similar position to Andrea Lee - 30-foot and change. She has to make it.
CLUTCH HALF FROM STARK
Stark drills her first putt well past, leaving Virginia-born Coughlin to seal the deal. However, the American can't find the bottom of the cup and Stark is given a chance to salvage a half.
The Swede - who was three up through 10 holes - somehow makes it from 10 feet. That is outstanding from Stark. Truly outstanding. A half point each.
It's 14-11 with three matches out there still. Europe leads in 1 and the other two are tied.
.@SolheimCupEuro still has a chance 👀Maja Stark finishes Match 24 with a tie 🤝 pic.twitter.com/ATTZuMZ6rWSeptember 15, 2024
LEONA MAGUIRE DEFEATS ALLY EWING 4&3
Among all the excitement, I should mention that Leona Maguire has completed a 4&3 win over Ally Ewing. That's some statement from the Irish woman after not playing at all yesterday.
USA WINS SOLHEIM CUP
Lilia Vu was two down with two holes to play, but the World No.2 never knows when she is beaten and she has just proved it with a stunning approach shot from 104 yards into the 18th green. Vu landed it a few feet away before it spun back and stopped at kick-in range. That happened mere moments after Valenzuela sent her approach to the front-left portion.
After the putt fails to land, it's all but celebration time for the USA. Vu taps home and that's the half-point they need! A first Solheim Cup victory since 2017!
The stunning iron shot into 18 from Lilia Vu that set up a tap-in to win the Solheim Cup 🇺🇸🏆👏pic.twitter.com/r6TYgHukcwSeptember 15, 2024
Consider business finished 😤@theliliavu makes birdie on 18 to tie the match and secure the half point to take the cup 🏆 pic.twitter.com/UjAtmse6jYSeptember 15, 2024
WINNING REACTION
The scenes of celebration after the winning moment. Team USA can once again call themselves Solheim Cup winners once again...
Locked down! 👐@SolheimCupUSA with the great reaction! pic.twitter.com/k4441xtwwQSeptember 15, 2024
TWO MATCHES STILL TO COMPLETE
We still have two matches to finish off out here. In Match 10, Madelene Sagstrom leads Sarah Schmelzel by one going down the last, but after the approach shots, it's advantage USA.
Schmelzel is below the hole in the front-left portion - very similar to where Valenzuela just missed from - while Sagstrom is all the way at the back of the green after being unable to control the golf ball out of the rough.
Linn Grant v Jennifer Kupcho is on the 17th.
KUPCHO DEFEATS GRANT 2&1
In the bottom match, Kupcho finally sees off Linn Grant after a spirited fightback from the European player.
SAGSTROM DEFEATS SCHMELZEL 1UP
On the 18th green, Sagstrom two putts from the back of the green to hold onto her own point and put a touch of gloss on a tough week for the Europeans. Schmelzel never gave her birdie putt a chance, but she can console herself with a fantastic team triumph.
FINAL SCORE: USA 15.5 EUROPE 12.5
USA wins the 2024 Solheim Cup! 🇺🇸🏆 pic.twitter.com/7ZxU5mBj1USeptember 15, 2024