DEN BOSCH, Netherlands – Colorado native Jennifer Kupcho delivered one of the most memorable finishes in Solheim Cup history on Saturday, rolling in two huge birdie putts on the final two holes to tie the United States and Europe at 8‑8 after four sessions.
Huge putts turn the tide
After a quiet start, Kupcho found herself one down as she approached the 17th green. With European opponents Carlota Ciganda and Celine Boutier both inside 12 feet, she faced a daunting 93‑foot putt. “Honestly, going into it, I had zero expectations,” Kupcho said. She let the ball roll, and it surged down the hill, finding the cup for a spectacular birdie.
The crowd erupted, and the U.S. captain, Angela Stanford, called the shot “absolutely turned the tide.” Kupcho celebrated with a loud “¡Vamos!” – a nod to Ciganda’s Spanish heritage – while teammates and staff spilled onto the green in jubilation.
Finishing on the 18th
With the match still tied, Kupcho faced the 18th hole. From the edge of the green she sank a 25‑foot putt, sealing a 1‑up win and a 3‑1 victory for the United States in the four‑ball session. Her final gesture – a playful cup of the ear toward the European fans – underscored the competitive yet respectful spirit of the event.
European challenges
Europe’s fans grew louder as the day progressed, especially after Swedish pairings Maja Stark and Linn Grant secured wins over U.S. stars Nelly Korda and Allisen Corpuz in the morning foursomes and later over Megan Khang and Lauren Coughlin in the afternoon four‑balls.
However, the top‑ranked European duo Lottie Woad and Charley Hull have struggled, contributing only a half‑point after four sessions – a first in the Cup’s 36‑year history. European captain Anna Nordqvist defended their continued pairing, expressing confidence in their abilities despite the recent setbacks.
Implications for Sunday singles
The tie sets up an exciting Sunday singles lineup, with the United States needing 14 points to retain the trophy. Kupcho will face Ciganda again, promising another high‑stakes showdown.
U.S. captain Angela Stanford summed up the moment: “I’ve never seen anything like that. In this environment, it just makes it so much more special.” The American team now heads into the final day with momentum firmly on their side.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
