Women's Golf · Solheim Cup
The Solheim Cup
The Solheim Cup is the women's equivalent of the Ryder Cup — a biennial team match play contest between Europe and the United States. One of the most exciting events in women's professional golf.
What is the Solheim Cup?
The Solheim Cup was first played in 1990 and is named after Karsten Solheim — the Norwegian-American founder of Ping Golf, who donated the trophy and helped establish the competition. It takes place every two years, alternating between venues in the USA and Europe, and is contested by 12 players per side in the same match play format as the Ryder Cup.
Recent Solheim Cup Results
Europe 14.5 – 13.5 USA
Finca Cortesín Golf Club, Casares, Spain
A dramatic final day saw Europe retain the Solheim Cup on home soil. The match went to the final singles pairings before Europe secured victory in what many observers called one of the greatest editions of the competition.
USA 15 – 13 Europe
Inverness Club, Toledo, Ohio, USA
The USA won on home soil, though Europe put up a strong fight. Ireland's Leona Maguire made her Solheim Cup debut and was extraordinary — earning 4.5 points from 5 matches, the best record by any player in a single edition of the competition.
Europe 14.5 – 13.5 USA
Gleneagles, Perthshire, Scotland
Another narrow victory for Europe on home turf at one of Scotland's most iconic venues. Gleneagles provided a spectacular backdrop for a tightly fought contest that went down to the final matches.
Notable British & Irish Players
The Solheim Cup has produced numerous British and Irish heroines over the years. These players have become central figures in the European team's success.
Leona Maguire
Ireland
Made her debut at the 2021 Solheim Cup and immediately became a legend of the competition — winning 4.5 points from 5 matches, an unprecedented record for a debut. One of the best players in the world game.
Georgia Hall
England
The 2018 AIG Women's British Open champion and a consistent Solheim Cup performer. Hall is one of England's most accomplished women's golfers of the modern era.
Charley Hull
England
One of the most popular players in women's golf. Hull has been a stalwart of the European Solheim Cup team for a decade, known for her aggressive style of play and competitive spirit.
Mel Reid
England
A powerful ball-striker and reliable member of the European team across multiple Solheim Cups. Reid has been a dependable performer in both team and singles formats.
How the Format Works
The Solheim Cup uses exactly the same format as the Ryder Cup — three days of match play split across foursomes, fourballs, and singles.
Foursomes (Alternate Shot)
Two players share one ball, taking alternate shots throughout the hole.
Fourballs (Best Ball)
Each player plays their own ball; the better score from each pairing counts.
Singles
All 12 players per side face off individually on the final day — 12 matches, 12 points.
28 points are available in total. The first team to 14.5 points wins. If the scores finish level at 14-14, the holder retains the trophy.
How to Watch the Solheim Cup in the UK
Sky Sports Golf typically carries comprehensive live coverage of the Solheim Cup, including all three days of competition.
BBC Sport provides coverage of women's golf and has broadcast Solheim Cup matches. Check BBC Sport for confirmed coverage for each edition.
Broadcasting arrangements can vary by edition. Always verify with official broadcasters and the Solheim Cup website (solheimcup.com).