Catriona Matthew reappointed as Solheim Cup Captain for 2021
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Winning European Captain Catriona Matthew retains position for 2021 Solheim Cup contest in Ohio
The Ladies European Tour have confirmed that Catriona Matthew will remain as Solheim Cup Captain for the 2021 contest in Ohio after she led Europe to a thrilling one-point victory over the USA at Gleneagles in September.
Matthew, who described the 14 ½ – 13 ½ win as the pinnacle of her career, will now attempt to become Europe’s first multiple Solheim Cup-winning captain – something she said she was honoured to be tasked with.
“Winning the Solheim Cup in Scotland was a dream come true, but backing that up with a win in America would be even better,” said Matthew on returning to the role as Captain at the Inverness Club in Toledo, Ohio
“It’s always harder to win on US soil, but I’m honoured to be tasked with the mission. I was lucky enough to be part of the first European team to win on US soil at Colorado Golf Club in 2013 and so know what’s possible.
“The American team played extremely well at Gleneagles, but what we accomplished this year and what it meant to people all around the world, will serve as further motivation. I’m excited to get down to business, build the next team and see what Europe is capable of at Inverness Club. It’s a very Scottish name, so I’m hoping that’s a good omen!
“Anyone who witnessed the 2019 Solheim Cup at Gleneagles in Scotland can be left in no doubt that it was an outstanding international event which set a new benchmark for women’s golf, but this is the beginning of a new, two-year journey, so I’m going to gather all my experience, take it forward and do my best to bring the trophy home to Europe again in 2021.”
Matthew, who played on nine Solheim Cup teams and has 11 professional victories to her name (including a major), was praised by members of her team after controversial wildcard pick Suzann Pettersen clinched the winning point with the very last putt of the match.
Of the returning appointment, Pettersen said she was ‘thrilled.
“I’m thrilled that Catriona is returning as captain. She’s a class act and obviously inspires all the players and team members around her. She’s not only a Solheim Cup legend, but she’s also a great leader, friend and mother. She had the faith in me to choose me as a wildcard pick, for which I will forever be grateful and she deserves all the credit.”
Those thoughts were echoed by Laura Davies, who served as one of Matthew’s vice captains in 2019.
“Everyone enjoyed the match at Gleneagles so much and I think that Catriona was such a great captain that she deserves the chance to go and get the trophy back again. I am looking forward to another terrific contest in Ohio.”
The 17th edition of the Solheim Cup, to be played on Tuesday, August 31 to Monday, September 6, 2021, will continue to build on the tradition and history of the biennial transatlantic contest.
