Suzann Pettersen named European Solheim Cup captain

Suzann Pettersen has been named European captain for the 2023 Solheim Cup.

The two-time major champion will take charge of the side for the match at Finca Cortesín, in the heart of Spain’s Costa del Sol, where she will look to build upon her incredible record as a player in the match.

Pettersen has represented Europe nine times as a player and twice as a vice-captain. She has been part of five triumphs, including the past two victories at Gleneagles in Scotland and at Inverness Club in Ohio.

• Tour pro details race to get out of Africa

At the 2019 Solheim Cup at Gleneagles, following an 18-month maternity leave, she was chosen by Catriona Matthew as a captain’s pick and, when the match came down to a seven-foot birdie putt on the final hole on Sunday under the ultimate pressure, she famously drained it to bring the cup home to Europe for the first time since 2013.

The 14.5-13.5 victory tied for the closest winning margin in Solheim Cup history. She retired from competition immediately afterwards.

In September this year, following the arrival of her second child, Pettersen returned to serve as a vice-captain under Matthew when Team Europe beat Team USA 15-13 to win for only the second time on US soil. Her first experience of being a vice-captain was at the 2017 Solheim Cup at Des Moines Golf and Country Club in Iowa, when she served under Annika Sorenstam. Pettersen had been due to have a playing role but due to injury, she swapped roles with Matthew just before the contest began.

• Brooks reveals in beating DeChambeau

As a player, Pettersen made her Solheim Cup debut at Interlachen Golf and Country Club in Minnesota in 2002, during her rookie year on the Ladies European Tour. She played in the next seven editions, helping Europe to victory in 2003, 2011 and 2013, before returning in 2019 for a starring role when she holed the winning putt, which she rates as the greatest putt of her career.

The former Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings No.2 has racked up 21 professional titles across the LET and LPGA Tours, including major victories at the 2007 McDonald’s LPGA Championship and the 2013 Evian Championship.

“I am simply thrilled to be named Solheim Cup captain,” said Pettersen. “This is the biggest honour of my career,” Pettersen said.

“My best golfing memories are from the Solheim Cup. You are out there with your teammates, your friends, and you all work for one goal. You fight for your friends and you share incredibly precious moments.

• Bryson, DJ and others sign up for Saudi event