Europe’s Solheim Cup team just picked a familiar face to lead them in 2026. Anna Nordqvist, one of the most decorated players in the tournament’s history, will take over as captain when the competition heads to the Netherlands.
It’s a natural fit for the 37-year-old Swede, who’s already been vice-captain for the past two years and has played in the event an impressive nine times.
Nordqvist knows what it takes to win. She’s been part of five European victory celebrations during her career, though she’ll now face the challenge of helping Europe bounce back from their recent 15.5-12.5 loss to Team USA.
"The Solheim Cup has played such a huge part in my career ever since I made my debut in 2009 in Chicago," Nordqvist said. "The friendships I’ve made and the memories created make this opportunity incredibly special."
She’s got the credentials to back up her new role. Nordqvist has racked up three major championships and collected wins on both sides of the Atlantic – six on the LPGA Tour and four on the Ladies European Tour.
Her Solheim Cup record speaks for itself: 17 wins in 35 matches, with three ties. Pretty impressive numbers for someone who plans to keep competing even after taking on the captain’s role.
The tournament will be held at Bernardus Golf from September 7-13, 2026. It’s a big moment for Dutch golf, hosting one of women’s golf’s premier events.
Meanwhile, Team USA hasn’t announced who’ll be leading their defense of the trophy. Current captain Stacy Lewis, who guided the Americans to victory in 2024, hasn’t ruled out a third stint in charge, but nothing’s been confirmed yet.
For Nordqvist, this will be her tenth Solheim Cup involvement – though this time, she’ll be calling the shots from outside the ropes.
