WHERE IT ALL BEGAN: 1990 & 1992

The First Two Solheim Cups and the Birth of a Rivalry

Every legendary rivalry has its spark. For the Solheim Cup, the premier team event in women’s golf, it began in 1990 with a bold idea, a new stage, and two continents ready to battle it out for pride, glory, and the honor of lifting a brand-new trophy. In honor of the 20th edition, we are rewinding the clock to when it all began.

Take a journey with us as we recount the tale on how the Solheim Cup became the most passionate and fierce competition in golf.

1990: U.S. Team Sets the Tone on Home Turf

The first-ever Solheim Cup kicked off in the U.S. at Lake Nona Golf & Country Club in Orlando, Florida. With eight players per team and one day of singles matches, the event was far from the three-day spectacle it has become today. But what it lacked in size, it made up for in significance.

The U.S. Team, led by captain Kathy Whitworth, the all-time leading winner in LPGA history, came out firing. Anchored by stars like Beth Daniel, Nancy Lopez, and Dottie Pepper, the Americans swept the first two sessions (foursomes and fourballs), putting early pressure on Team Europe.

Despite a spirited effort from the European squad, featuring players such as Laura Davies and Trish Johnson, the Americans proved too strong. The U.S. won convincingly, 11½ to 4½, setting the tone for what appeared to be American dominance to come.

But the Solheim Cup wasn’t meant to be a one-sided affair.

1992: Europe Strikes Back in Scotland

Two years later, the Cup crossed the Atlantic to Dalmahoy Country Club just outside Edinburgh. The scene was set for a rematch, only this time; Team Europe had the home crowd, a deeper squad, and a chip on their shoulder.

Under Captain Mickey Walker, Europe arrived hungry for redemption. The team now featured new talent like Sweden’s Helen Alfredsson and Scotland’s own Dale Reid, who added depth and determination. Unlike in ’90, the Europeans came out hot in foursomes and kept their momentum alive all weekend.

When the dust settled, Europe had pulled off a stunning 11½ to 6½ victory, marking their first-ever Solheim Cup win and proving that this transatlantic rivalry had serious staying power.

It wasn’t just a victory. It was a turning point.

A Legacy in the Making

The first two editions weren’t just about wins and losses; they were about laying the foundation for something bigger. The Solheim Cup would go on to grow in size, visibility, and intensity. It evolved from a promising new idea to one of the most emotional and fiercely contested competitions in golf.

And it all started with a confident American debut… and a fearless European response.