On the perfectly coiffed green, the golfer measures the position of her ball, the lay of the hole, and the distance. As she tees off, a nervous heartbeat drums over the quietude of the atmosphere. The fans eye the ball as it flies across the horizon, back down onto the green and…into the hole. It’s a hole-in-one. “We heard this huge cheer. It was so big we thought it was the American crowd,” said professional Spanish golfer, Azahara Munoz, present at the historic event. Swedish player, Anna Nordqvist is the first player to achieve such a coveted accomplishment at the Solheim Cup.

Every two years, the Solheim Cup hypnotizes the golfing world for three whole days. The format of the competition is the same as that of the Ryder Cup, with one minor detail switched up: women rule. Teams representing America and Europe go head to head, golfing to see who gets to take home the Solheim Cup for that year. In particular, the match features 12 of the best European players from the Ladies European Tour (LET) and the 12 best U.S. players from the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Tour. 

Europe and the US take turns to host the Solheim Cup, yet without ever altering the prestige of the classic sport. The match-play competition attracts thousands of European and American fans to cheer for their side, no matter where they may find themselves. From Ireland to Colorado, Germany to Ohio or Sweden to Minnesota, the transatlantic voyage doesn’t stop Solheim Cup supporters from attending the biennial event.

The namesake tournament was aided in part to Karsten Solheim, founder of Ping Golf. In the 1980s, his company was already heavily involved in women’s golf, having sponsored a number of LPGA tournaments. When the LET and LPGA Tour brainstormed a concept to have a Ryder Cup inspired tournament for women, Ping Golf was the first on the list to sponsor the revolutionary event. To thank him for his commitment to the sport, the Cup was named after him. Later that year, in 1990, the very first Solheim Cup was played.

The Cup was first played in even numbered years until 2002, to avoid clashing with the Ryder Cup. Following the September 11 attacks, as with many organized occasions, the Solheim Cup was postponed and rescheduled for a later year. From 2003, the Cup was therefore played on odd numbered years until Covid, when everything was reshuffled once more. Starting from 2024, the competition plans to revert back to even numbered years. Amid all the chaos and precariousness, one thing was kept intact: the tradition and prestige of the sport blended with nationalistic dedication to one’s country and continent. 

No matter in which country or state the Solheim Cup is hosted, preparation is at the forefront of ever match. Golf courses are scrutinized over months in advance of the big day. Every single detail is cared for, beginning with deciding on which location is worthy of becoming the stage for the Cup. It has to have the right amount of scenery paired with just the right amount of unforgiving terrain to challenge the players throughout the three-day tournament.  

Not only do organizers review everything for the players, but they ensure that the location rewards the loyal fans who come and watch. Whether that is guaranteeing breathtaking views, an exhilarating lineup of professionals or a platinum package for those who want the luxury experience, there is nothing that they won’t look over. Those who host the tournament are given the task to prep the stage for those highly anticipated and heart stopping moments. In some cases, it goes beyond snipping the blades of grass to the perfect height. Remodeling, terraforming and laying out new sod are all part of ensuring that the ultimate playing field is enjoyed by both the players and the spectators. 

As the female golfers walk out to the tee for the first time in the tournament, fans eye each other to determine how the match will start and who will lead. Whilst the sport requires focus and concentration, that doesn’t stop team members from revving up the spectators to encourage the players. Red, white and blue dot the crowd as some sport USA merchandise and others, European. Although the event remains professional and nail-biting, the atmosphere is electric and positively chaotic from day one.

Throughout the years, Juli Inkster, Cristie Kerr, Catriona Matthew and Laura Davies have all participated in the event. Norwegian player, Suzann Pettersen, is among those who remain synonymous with the event, having participated in it nine times so far. Every Cup, rivals go against each other for the nth time, making the spectacle even more entertaining to watch from sidelines.

This prestigious competition doesn’t steer away from giving the audience an opportunity to live it in the most luxurious and exclusive way possible. Every other year, most of the hosting golf courses are comprised of unique scenery, classy amenities and glamorous accommodation. Some have spa facilities, others have fine dining for those who want to add a culinary detail to their experience. 

Given the distinguished and respected nature of the tournament, exclusive offers may include a week-long itinerary for those who want to make the most of the trip. Depending on the hosting territory, guests can expect to visit UNESCO Cultural Heritage sights, play on the course and indulge in Michelin-star restaurants. Merging exclusive experiences with the most anticipated event in women’s golf can only result in an unforgettable and exhilarating adventure. 

The Solheim Cup is women’s golf most prestigious moment. Whilst it only happens every two years, it ensures that the build of excitement and adrenaline is done properly. Not only that, but the preparations for such an esteemed event happen months, if not years, in advance which guarantees the utmost class and professionalism. At this event, the sport of golf is complemented by the women, the location and the grandeur of the occasion. A fan of golf shouldn’t miss it.