After a series of heartbreaks, the U.S. Solheim Cup team emerged victorious over Europe, with Lilia Vu delivering a critical half-point at the par-4 18th hole. Vu’s opponent, Swiss rookie Albane Valenzuela, left her approach short, giving Vu the opening she needed. The American’s shot landed two feet from the hole, drawing loud cheers from fans decked out in red, white, and blue.
According to the Washington Post, Vu’s half-point in the ninth singles match secured the U.S. team’s necessary 14½ points, ending with a final score of 15½-12½ at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Club in Gainesville. This marked the first American victory since 2017.
“It’s a lot of pressure, but that’s what you work hard for all your life,” Vu said. “This is the moment. This was my moment.”
Lexi Thompson, participating in her seventh Solheim Cup, was among the first to celebrate with Vu. Thompson had announced her partial retirement earlier this year, adding extra emotion to the victory as she lifted the trophy high above her head.
“It meant the world to me just to be here and to be part of this team,” Thompson said. “These girls are incredible.”
The win wouldn’t have been possible without Lauren Coughlin, whose first Solheim Cup appearance was marked by collecting 3½ points, including a crucial halve in the singles match right before Vu’s.
“I fight. That’s kind of what I do,” Coughlin said. “I don’t give up on a round — ever.”
Nelly Korda, the world No. 1, faced a tough loss to Charley Hull in the opening singles match, but the strong performances by Rose Zhang and Megan Khang helped cushion the blow. Zhang became the only player to go 4-0 this weekend, while Khang’s 3-0 record added to the U.S. team’s overall success.
“This team enjoyed this week more than the golf itself,” U.S. captain Stacy Lewis said. “They had so much fun together. They picked each other up when they needed it.”
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