Anna Norqvist ready for Solheim Cup number nine

Anna Nordqvist, one of the most seasoned players in women's professional golf, is set to compete in her ninth Solheim Cup this week. The Swedish golfer brings a wealth of experience, both as a player and a vice-captain, to this year's event. As she reflects on her journey, she shares her thoughts on the importance of the Solheim Cup, the European team's strengths, and the evolution of women's golf.

A deepening appreciation for the Solheim Cup

Having participated in the Solheim Cup for over a decade, Nordqvist’s appreciation for the event has only grown. “The more Solheim Cups I've been part of, the more grateful I am because I know it's not going to last forever,” she said. As both a player and a vice-captain for Team Europe, Nordqvist understands the magnitude of the event, especially as she recognises her playing days won’t last forever. "It's been really cool being part of both sides over the last two years and understanding how much work goes on behind the scenes," she added, expressing pride in her team's ever-improving performances.

The role of experience in Team Europe's success

When asked about the U.S. team being the favourite based on world rankings and statistics, Nordqvist acknowledged their strength but stressed the importance of experience. "The U.S. Team is favoured by quite a bit this year. We saw how strong they were in Spain last year, so I think we all expect them to come out really strong," she said. However, she expressed confidence in the European team’s abilities. “I do think experience helps a lot,” Nordqvist said, noting that 10 out of their 12 players competed last year, and everyone has been performing well.

Europe’s recent success in the Solheim Cup has been undeniable, winning two and retaining the cup with a draw in the last edition. Nordqvist attributes much of this to the team’s strong spirit. "The team spirit is always one of our strengths," she said. "Winning the Solheim Cup, there's no better feeling." Nordqvist believes this unity is crucial, particularly when playing on American soil, where the team will face the challenge of competing against a home crowd.

Balancing dual roles and lessons learned

This year, Nordqvist returns to a more player-centric role, having balanced playing and vice-captaincy last year. "Last year was pretty tough for me because I wasn’t in the best of places in my life at the time," she admitted. But with a more established captaincy team, including the addition of Mel Reid, Nordqvist feels better prepared. "This year, I'm more as a player, so I think that's the biggest difference," she explained.

One of the keys to Team Europe's success has been Captain Suzann Pettersen's leadership. Nordqvist, who has known Pettersen for years, praised her competitive spirit and decision-making. "She's been really prepared this year, making a lot of good decisions and just kind of doing her thing," Nordqvist remarked.

Having played alongside Pettersen in her first Solheim Cup in 2009, she recalls it as a dream come true. "I got to play with her as my best ball partner... and I ended up playing on the same team as basically all of my childhood stars," Nordqvist said. Now, seeing Pettersen transition into her captaincy role, Nordqvist notes how her passion for the game continues to inspire the team.

The growth of women's golf

Since turning pro, Nordqvist has witnessed the tremendous growth of women's golf, both in terms of purses and popularity. "It's nice that women's golf is finally getting the recognition that we deserve," she said. With more tournaments, better TV coverage, and increased sponsorship, Nordqvist is excited about the future of the sport. Reflecting on her early years, she recalls the Tour having just 22 events. "Now, I think we have a good 30-plus," she noted, expressing optimism for the opportunities that lie ahead for future generations of female golfers.

Legacy and final Solheim Cups

As she enters her ninth Solheim Cup, Nordqvist is aware that her time in the event may be limited. "Obviously not knowing how many more Solheim Cups I'm going to play myself, I think you embrace it even more when you know there might not be many more that you're going to be a part of," she reflected. She also spoke highly of Lexi Thompson, one of her fiercest competitors and an icon in women's golf. "Lexi is an amazing athlete... she's done a lot for the women’s game," Nordqvist said, acknowledging that both of their Solheim Cup legacies may be nearing their final chapters.

As Anna Nordqvist prepares to represent Europe once again, her passion for the Solheim Cup and her commitment to women's golf remain stronger than ever. Whether as a player, vice-captain, or mentor, she continues to be an integral part of Team Europe’s pursuit of success on one of golf’s grandest stages.

Women & Golf will be reporting direct from Robert Trent Jones Golf Club - find out more about the 2024 Solheim Cup here.