Five Sunday Singles Matches to Watch at the 2023 Solheim Cup
On the final day of the Solheim Cup at Finca Cortesin in Spain on Sept. 24, 2023, 24 players from the United States and Europe competed in 12 singles matches. The teams had been tied 8-8 after the opening two days, leaving the trophy to be decided on the final day.
According to the Associated Press, the United States and Europe each won five singles matches, with two ending in ties. The final score was 14-14, but under the competition’s rules, defending champions Europe retained the Solheim Cup.
1. Leona Maguire vs. Rose Zhang
A European veteran and an American rookie star
One of the most anticipated matchups featured Leona Maguire and Rose Zhang. Maguire had established herself as one of Europe’s key players and a force in Solheim Cup competition, while Zhang was attracting attention as a rising star on the U.S. team.
Maguire won 4&3. Zhang played three matches during the competition without recording a win, while Maguire delivered a crucial point that helped give Europe early momentum.
2. Carlota Ciganda vs. Nelly Korda
A decisive matchup on Spanish home soil
The day’s most symbolic matchup pitted Spain’s Carlota Ciganda against American Nelly Korda. As the host nation’s only Spanish player, Ciganda had the chance to clinch the title in front of her home fans, while Korda was tasked with keeping the United States’ comeback hopes alive.
Ciganda birdied the 17th hole to defeat Korda 2&1. According to the PGA of America, she hit decisive approach shots on the 16th and 17th holes to secure Europe’s 14th point. The victory completed Europe’s third consecutive Solheim Cup triumph.
3. Caroline Hedwall vs. Ally Ewing
A dramatic comeback powered by late birdies and an eagle
The match between Caroline Hedwall and Ally Ewing was a prime example of how a strong finish can change the course of a match. Hedwall competed as a captain’s pick for Europe, while Ewing represented the United States as one of its most experienced players.
Hedwall produced a spectacular finish, making four birdies and an eagle over the final six holes. The Associated Press described the run as a pivotal moment that kept Europe in the fight for the title. Hedwall ultimately won by two holes.
4. Anna Nordqvist vs. Jennifer Kupcho
A battle of experience and strategy
The matchup between Anna Nordqvist and Jennifer Kupcho turned on course management and match-play experience. Nordqvist was serving not only as a player but also as a vice captain for the European team, giving her a clear understanding of the broader momentum of the contest.
Nordqvist defeated Kupcho 2&1 to earn her first win of the competition. It was more than an individual victory—it was a strategic point that helped Europe prevent the United States from mounting a comeback.
5. Céline Boutier vs. Angel Yin
Europe’s top-ranked player against an American comeback threat
The match between Céline Boutier and Angel Yin featured two headline players. Boutier was the highest-ranked European player at the time, while Yin was viewed as one of the Americans capable of leading a late fightback.
Yin won 2&1. Boutier lost all three of her matches in the competition, while Yin helped the United States add points on the final day. In a tightly contested match, the ability to hold firm over the closing holes proved decisive.
What the 2023 Solheim Cup Singles Matches Left Behind
The final day of the 2023 Solheim Cup was defined not by a one-sided victory, but by a series of closely fought matches that swung back and forth. The United States and Europe each won five of the 12 singles matches, while two ended in ties.
The decisive final point ultimately went to Ciganda on her home course. Europe retained the Solheim Cup after the 14-14 tie, and Ciganda became the player who closed out the competition in front of the Spanish fans.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Solheim Cup?
The Solheim Cup is a team match-play competition in which women’s golf teams representing the United States and Europe face off. Each team consists of 12 players.
How many Sunday singles matches are played at the Solheim Cup?
On the final day, 12 players from the United States and 12 from Europe compete in 12 head-to-head singles matches. A win is worth one point, while a tie gives each team half a point.
What was the final result of the 2023 Solheim Cup?
The United States and Europe tied 14-14. However, because Europe was the defending champion, it retained the Solheim Cup under the competition’s rules.
Which player clinched the 2023 Solheim Cup for Europe?
Europe’s Carlota Ciganda defeated Nelly Korda 2&1 to earn Europe’s 14th point. The victory secured Europe’s third consecutive title.
What was the most dramatic moment of the 2023 singles matches?
Carlota Ciganda’s birdie on the 17th hole and Caroline Hedwall’s late run of birdies and an eagle were among the defining moments. Their strong finishes helped Europe retain the title.
