Americans Win Back Solheim Cup for the First Time in Four Years

Americans Win Back Solheim Cup for the First Time in Four Years
After losing in 2013 for the first time on home soil, the Americans were determined to win back the Solheim Cup.  Beating Europe 14 ½ to 13 ½ in Germany over the weekend.

The match play was full of highs and lows for both sides.  Making this year’s ladies Ryder Cup style event one of the most dramatic yet.  Despite going into the final singles matches trailing the European ladies 10-6, the U.S. battled their way back to secure an incredible victory.

But the weekend wasn’t without controversy.  Centering on the end of a rain-delayed 4-ball match on Sunday morning and a putt concession.  After America’s Alison Lee left an 18-inch putt on the 17th hole she believed opponents Charley Hull and Suzann Pettersen conceded the putt, picking up the ball and heading to the 18th hole.

Norway’s Pettersen than began a standoff with officials stating the putt was never conceded, ending with the Americans losing the hole and the match.  Tears from both sides flowed with Lee and Hull visibly upset by the incident.

While Pettersen continued to stand her ground throughout the rest of the final day there was astonishment from the Americans and even some of her European teammates regarding the lack of sportsmanship the incident involved. Although it appears the controversy might have actually helped the U.S. side in the end.  Giving them the boost needed to overcome a visibly ruffled Europe.

“The Americans had more fire in their belly than what they already had,” England’s Melissa Reid told Sky Sports News.  “They’re amazing golfers, the best in the world and we didn't need to give them any more reason to beat us than they already had.”

Reid added, “They came out more determined; they fought their hearts out and beat us on the last day.”

Pettersen has since gone on to apologise for the 17th hole drama admitting she let herself and her team down.



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