CASARES, Spain — Spaniard Carlota Ciganda helped save the day on home soil for Team Europe, lifting the Europeans to a 14-14 tie to retain the Solheim Cup at Finca Cortesin Golf Club. The two teams split the 12 singles matches on the Sunday – ensuring the first ever tie in Solheim Cup history, and the first 3-peat for Team Europe in the history of the Solheim Cup matches.
“There’s nothing like this,” Ciganda said. “To play in Spain in front of your home crowd, and to have my name being chanted, it’s really amazing, very special and just something that I won’t forget.” Ciganda, the only Spaniard in the competition, came up with two stellar approach shots to close out her match against Nelly Korda (2&1) that secured the clinching 14th point for Europe. It was her fourth straight point after sitting out the opening session on Friday.
“It was a team effort and I’m so proud of everyone,” Ciganda said. “I love the Solheim Cup and I love being in Spain. The cup stays where it belongs.”
Europe’s captain Suzann Pettersen, made the winning putt four years ago as a player, raised the trophy celebration. “I think it was meant to be, this is all Carlota, let her have it.”
Spanish King Felipe VI was at Finca Cortesin and helped present the trophy to the winners.
“This is a dream come true. We had a massive challenge ahead of us. Today we created history yet again in the Solheim Cup and these girls are legends,” said Pettersen, who added that she plans to be back as captain next year.
Leaderboard: https://solheimcup2023.eu/
