Magical dream come true for very proud captain Catriona
Proud Scot Catriona Matthew hailed her Team Europe heroes after securing the Solheim Cup in magical fashion.
Carlota Ciganda, Anne van Dam, Caroline Hedwall, Charley Hull, Georgia Hall, Azahara Munoz, Caroline Masson, Anna Nordqvist, Bronte Law, Celine Boutier, Jodi Ewart Shadoff and Suzann Pettersen all wrote their names into sporting history.
“It’s a fantastic moment,”Matthew said.“It’s a dream come true. These 12 players played their hearts out.
“We knew it was going to be close, but to come down to that last putt and for Suzann (Pettersen) to hole it – it was a fantastic team performance.
“They all contributed a lot. We never would have won it if it wasn’t all of us.”
Matthew admits she was barely able to watch Pettersen’s winning putt and added:“It’s far worse watching.
“When you’re playing you’re kind of in the zone and in the moment, and you’ve got control over things.
“But watching you just have to have faith in the player who’s there, and they’re all good players. I had confidence they were going to do it.”
Praising Pettersen for showing nerves of steel, Matthew continued:“Over the last, I don’t know how long, 20 years maybe, maybe 15, she’s been one of the trailblazers in European women’s golf.
“I think we’ve played on seven or eight Solheim Cups together. She’s just been a huge part of women’s golf and The Solheim Cup.”
England’s Hall and rookie Boutier of France won three points from three in the foursomes and fourballs, then both emerged victorious from their singles matches.
At the end of play, Team USA captain Juli Inkster said:“It was great for women’s golf. We played great and you have to tip your hat to the Europeans.
“We had a few tears but it’s okay, we played great, the Europeans played great. I told them to keep their heads up.
“I’m really happy where I’m at. It’s not about the wins and losses, it’s about the memories and the camaraderie. To be part of the team is why I love to do it.”