Europe Defeats USA to Reclaim 2026 Solheim Cup in the Netherlands
Team Europe secured a dramatic 15-13 victory over the United States at Bernardus Golf, reclaiming the Solheim Cup with standout performances and a decisive final-day singles showing.
By Nadia Hussain · First published 13 Sept 2026
In brief
- The 2026 Solheim Cup was held at Bernardus Golf in the Netherlands from September 11 to 13.
- After two days of competition, Europe and the USA were tied 8-8 heading into the singles matches.
- Europe pulled ahead in the final singles session, ultimately winning the Solheim Cup 15-13.
- Rookies like Lottie Woad and Nastasia Nadaud played crucial roles with important wins on Sunday.
- This win marks a return of the trophy to Europe after losing to the US two years prior.
Timeline · 7 moments
Solheim Cup to take place at Bernardus Golf in the Netherlands
Sky Sports ↗Opening day ends in 4-4 tie after dramatic matches
Sky Sports ↗Europe builds 7-5 lead after morning foursomes
www.espn.com - TOP Sports ↗USA fights back to level score at 8-8 after day two
Telegraaf ↗Europe dominates singles matches on final day
Latest news, sport and opinion from the Guardian ↗Lottie Woad secures victory for Europe with crucial putt
BBC Sport ↗Europe defeats USA 15-13 to reclaim Solheim Cup
Sky Sports ↗How it started
The Solheim Cup is the premier team event in women's golf, pitting Europe against the United States every two years. In 2026, the event took place for the first time in the Netherlands, at Bernardus Golf. Team Europe aimed to reclaim the trophy after a close loss to the US in Virginia two years earlier, fueling motivation for their players.
Both teams arrived with high expectations and strong lineups, including notable rookies and experienced leaders. The event promised intense competition, with the European crowd and unpredictable weather adding extra challenges for the visitors.
How it unfolded
The tournament began on September 11 with closely contested matches. After the first day, the teams were tied 4-4, thanks to a late surge by Europe's Carlota Ciganda, who secured a crucial point in the fourballs.
On September 12, Europe initially took the lead, going up 7-5 after the morning foursomes. However, Team USA responded strongly in the afternoon fourballs, leveling the score at 8-8 by the end of the day. This set up a tense Sunday with everything to play for in the singles matches.
The final day saw Europe dominate the singles. Key performances from rookies Julia Lopez Ramirez, Lottie Woad, and Nastasia Nadaud helped swing the momentum. Woad's composed putting on the 17th hole sealed the decisive point for Europe, while Nadaud capped an impressive debut by defeating Andrea Lee.
By the end of the singles, Europe had reached 15 points to the USA's 13, clinching the Solheim Cup in front of home fans.
Where it stands
Europe has reclaimed the Solheim Cup, ending a two-year wait since their previous defeat to the United States. The 15-13 win was achieved through a strong team effort, with rookies and experienced players contributing at key moments.
The event was marked by dramatic swings in momentum, but Europe's final-day singles performance proved decisive. The result is a source of pride for the team and their supporters, especially given the intense competition and pressure.
More in Sports
All →
Elena Rybakina Wins US Open, Ends Sabalenka's Title Streak
Elena Rybakina defeats Aryna Sabalenka in three sets to win her first US Open and rise to world number one.
38 sources · over 6 days
Marc Marquez Wins MotoGP San Marino Grand Prix After Bezzecchi Crashes From Pole
Marc Marquez took victory at Misano and now shares the championship lead, after Marco Bezzecchi crashed out in the opening lap from pole position.
9 sources · over 3 days
France Defeats Germany to Reach First-Ever Women's Basketball World Cup Final
France's women's basketball team has made history by reaching their first World Cup final after a dominant semifinal win over Germany in Berlin.
15 sources · over 4 days