The 2026 Solheim Cup, pitting the best women golfers from Europe against their counterparts from the USA, is set to begin this week at Bernardus Golf in the Netherlands. History suggests another intensely close contest, with recent matches in Europe often decided by the narrowest of margins.
The biennial event, running from Friday, September 11 to Sunday, September 13, sees Team Europe aiming to reclaim the trophy after the USA secured a momentous victory on home soil in 2024 at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club in Virginia, breaking a streak of three European wins.
A History of Tight Finishes
The Solheim Cup has a reputation for dramatic finishes, particularly when hosted in Europe. The previous three European stagings have all been decided by a single point or ended in a tie. This includes Europe’s dramatic 14-14 tie in Spain three years ago, which allowed them to retain the trophy, and their single-point victory at Gleneagles in 2019, decided by Suzann Pettersen’s final putt.
Even further back, the 2015 contest in Germany saw the USA achieve an astonishing comeback to win by a single point. This history of tight contests is reflected in the aggregate score between the teams, which currently stands tied at 42 points apiece.
British number one Lottie Woad, making her debut for Europe, highlighted the significance of every contribution. She told the BBC, “I think it just shows how important each game is… even just getting a half point could be vital.”
Tournament Format and Key Players
The Solheim Cup mirrors the Ryder Cup format over three days. Friday and Saturday will feature four foursomes (alternate shot) matches and four fourball matches each day. Sunday will culminate in 12 singles matches.
Team Europe, captained by Anna Nordqvist, includes star players such as Charley Hull and Lottie Woad, alongside rookies Mimi Rhodes, France’s Nastasia Nadaud, and Spain’s Julia Lopez Ramirez. Hull noted the added pressure of playing at home, stating, “It’s a little more pressure over here when it’s a home Solheim Cup. You’ve just got to deal with it, just stay focused, and be in the zone.”
The US team, led by Captain Angela Stanford, features prominent names like world number one Nelly Korda and rising star Rose Zhang. Stanford expressed confidence in her line-up, telling BBC Sport, “I think they’re very mentally tough… they seem really focused.”
Despite a lack of stellar individual form for many players this season – with only Europe’s Celine Boutier and Lottie Woad, and the USA’s Lauren Coughlin, claiming tour titles in 2026 – the unique matchplay environment is expected to bring out their best. Linn Grant, a Swedish player for Europe, remarked, “It’s so different playing matchplay in this setting. It’s kind of like just everyone’s best game just shows up normally.”
Oxfordshire golf fans may also recall European team member Esther Henseleit, who was in contention at the AIG Women’s Open earlier this season.
How to Watch the Solheim Cup in the UK
For UK viewers eager to follow the action from Bernardus Golf, coverage will be available on the Golf Channel. Streaming options include Golfchannel.com and the Golf Channel app.
The broadcast schedule (all times BST):
- Thursday, September 10: 5 p.m. (Opening Ceremony)
- Friday, September 11: 6:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- Saturday, September 12: 6:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.
- Sunday, September 13: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
FAQ
Where is the 2026 Solheim Cup being held?
The 2026 Solheim Cup is being held at Bernardus Golf near Hertogenbosch in the Netherlands.
When does the Solheim Cup take place?
The three-day contest starts on Friday, September 11, and concludes on Sunday, September 13.
Who are the captains for Team Europe and Team USA?
Team Europe is captained by Anna Nordqvist, while Team USA is led by Captain Angela Stanford.
How can I watch the Solheim Cup in the UK?
UK viewers can watch the Solheim Cup on the Golf Channel, with additional streaming options available via Golfchannel.com and the Golf Channel app.
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