With less than two months until the Solheim Cup, preparations are intensifying as northern Virginia gears up to host the premier event in women’s golf.
At Robert Trent Jones Golf Club, U.S. captain Stacy Lewis and seven-time Solheim Cup participant Lexi Thompson have gathered to further ready themselves for the bi-annual competition between the U.S. and Europe.
“It is the best golf tournament that you’ll ever experience, especially on the women’s side,” said Thompson, highlighting the event’s unique atmosphere and the skill showcased under immense pressure.
The nearly 7,000-yard course in Prince William County is transforming, with banners and bleachers being set up, particularly around the first tee, expected to be a focal point when the competition starts on September 13.
Thompson reminisced about the electric atmosphere at the first tee, where chants and music make the ground vibrate. A J-shaped grandstand will encircle the vast tee box at No. 1, and a large pavilion will be built near holes 3, 4, 13, and 14, with over 5,000 spectators anticipated daily.
Spectators will have prime viewing spots as the course’s layout, hugging Lake Manassas on the left from holes 9-14, lacks a traditional clubhouse “turn.” Thompson pointed out that the back nine, especially the par-three ninth hole, could be pivotal, with par possibly being a winning score depending on the greens’ firmness.
Lewis, experiencing the course for the first time, noted its similarities to other Robert Trent Jones designs, with stunning lake views and challenging greens. She emphasized the importance of precision, as fairways narrow significantly approaching the greens, which are guarded by substantial bunkers.
“I want this set up as a ball striker’s course where you’ve got to hit the fairway, hit the green,” said Lewis, believing this setup would benefit the U.S. team more than the Europeans.
Players will need to navigate not only the bunkers but also the challenging winds off Lake Manassas, which rarely come from behind. Lewis stressed the importance of accuracy, as missing a green could be costly, favoring the more skilled players.
The U.S. team aims to reclaim the cup for the first time since 2017, with Europe retaining the trophy after a 14-14 tie in Spain last year. Confirmed team members via qualifying points include World No. 1 Nelly Korda, five-time LPGA winner Lilia Vu, and three-time winner Ally Ewing.
Lewis expressed excitement about announcing team selections, noting the significant impact it has on players’ careers. Thompson, who plans to step back from a full-time schedule after this year, hasn’t yet qualified but is a strong candidate for one of Lewis’ three captain’s picks.
Lewis praised Thompson’s tenacity, confident that regardless of any early setbacks, Thompson would fiercely compete until the end.
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