The 2026 Solheim Cup commenced at Bernardus Golf in the Netherlands on Friday, with Team USA and Team Europe locked in a tightly contested battle. After the opening round, the scoreboard showed an even 2-2 tie, marking only the third time in the history of the event’s 20 editions that the initial session concluded deadlocked.
Nelly Korda Leads Team USA in 2026 Solheim Cup Opening Round
Setting an early tone, Nelly Korda and her foursomes partner Allisen Corpuz dominated the first match against Charley Hull and rookie Lottie Woad. The American duo maintained flawless play without a single bogey and surged ahead by winning three consecutive holes, ultimately securing a 4-and-3 victory. This win extended their partnership’s perfect record to 5-0, establishing the best tandem performance in Solheim Cup history.
Following their triumph, Korda praised Corpuz, highlighting her teammate’s reliability and the enjoyable chemistry they share on the course.
However, Team Europe swiftly countered. Maja Stark and Linn Grant outperformed Rose Zhang and Jennifer Kupcho with a commanding 3-and-2 victory, fueled by a remarkable 4-under performance on the front nine. Meanwhile, Esther Henseleit and Leona Maguire narrowly defeated Andrea Lee and Lindy Duncan, further balancing the competition.
Team USA regained momentum as Lauren Coughlin teamed with Alison Lee to secure a 3-and-2 win over Nanna Koerstz Madsen and Celine Boutier. With the afternoon fourball matches on the horizon, both teams remain locked in a fierce contest, leaving the overall outcome wide open.