Was it a Funny Match? – The Unforgettable Solheim Cup Upset
The Solheim Cup, one of the most anticipated events in women’s golf, has a rich history of surprises and upsets. But few matches have been as memorable as the 1992 Solheim Cup, where Europe pulled off an incredible comeback against the heavily favored United States team. It was a funny match, indeed, as the underdog European team, led by captain Mickey Walker, defied the odds and secured a thrilling 11.5-6.5 victory.
The match was held at Dalmahoy, Scotland, in the midst of a bleak and rainy week. The US team, led by captain Kathy Whitworth, was heavily favored to win, with six of its players eventually inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame. In contrast, the European team had only two major winners, Laura Davies and Liselotte Neumann. The odds were stacked against the Europeans, and the US team was expected to dominate the match.
From Humble Beginnings to Golfing Greatness
The Solheim Cup was first conceived in the late 1980s as a women’s equivalent to the Ryder Cup. The idea was born out of a bold suggestion from the Women’s Professional Golfers’ Association (WPGA), now known as the Ladies European Tour (LET). The WPGA had been formed in 1978, more than 30 years after the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) was established in the US. Despite this late start, the WPGA was determined to create a platform for women’s golf to shine.
Karsten Solheim, a Norwegian-born engineer, was instrumental in the Solheim Cup’s creation. Solheim had revolutionized golf club design in the 1950s with his iconic Ping putter, which featured an offset hosel and parallel lines to help golfers square the putter to the ball. Solheim’s innovative design had become the most copied putter on the market, and his family’s company, Ping, had grown into a golfing powerhouse.
In 1975, Solheim sponsored the Karsten Ping Open in Phoenix, putting up a purse worth approximately $500,000 in today’s money. Although the event reportedly lost money, Solheim picked up the tab, demonstrating his commitment to the game. When the LPGA approached him with the idea of a biennial Ryder Cup equivalent, Solheim listened intently.
The Birth of the Solheim Cup
The Solheim Cup was born out of a partnership between the LPGA and the Solheim family. In January 1990, LPGA commissioner Bill Blue approached Karsten and Louise Solheim with the idea of sponsoring a women’s team event. The Solheims listened, and Louise eventually proposed a bold commitment: to sponsor 10 events, thinking 20 years ahead. The LPGA agreed, and the Solheim Cup was officially launched.
The first Solheim Cup was held in 1990 at Lake Nona, Florida, with the US team dominating the European side 11.5-4.5. The match was an exhibition for the US players, but the European team showed glimpses of the spirit that would define the competition in years to come.
Europe’s Dark Horse
The 1992 Solheim Cup was a different story altogether. The European team, led by captain Mickey Walker, had a newfound sense of determination and grit. Laura Davies, who had won just one of her four major titles by 1992, was on her way to becoming one of the best golfers in the world. Davies won all three of her matches at Dalmahoy, including the opening foursomes where she teamed up with Alison Nicholas to beat Betsy King and Beth Daniel.
The weather played a significant role in the match, with the European team well adapted to the wet and windy conditions. The US team, on the other hand, struggled to cope with the elements, and their performance began to unravel. The final day’s singles saw Europe dominate, with Davies leading the way to a 7-3 victory and securing the overall win.
The Legacy of the Solheim Cup
The Solheim Cup has grown into one of the most prestigious events in women’s golf, with a legacy that transcends the sport. The competition has become a celebration of women’s golf, showcasing the skills and dedication of the world’s top players.
Karsten Solheim’s vision of creating a platform for women’s golf has come to fruition. The Solheim Cup has inspired countless young golfers, providing a role model for women and girls around the world. The competition has also grown in popularity, with this year’s event expected to draw up to 100,000 spectators in Virginia.
The Solheim Cup is more than just a funny match; it’s a testament to the power of women’s golf and the enduring legacy of Karsten Solheim’s vision.
The Impact of Karsten Solheim’s Legacy
Karsten Solheim’s legacy extends beyond the Solheim Cup. His innovative designs have revolutionized the game, and his commitment to women’s golf has paved the way for future generations of female golfers. Solheim’s story is a reminder that even the most unlikely ideas can become a reality with determination and perseverance.
External Links
To learn more about the Solheim Cup and its history, visit the official Solheim Cup website (solheimcup.com).
For more information on Karsten Solheim and his innovative designs, visit the Ping website (ping.com).