One of the most eagerly anticipated events in the world of women’s golf, the Solheim Cup 2023, took place at Finca Cortesín in the Costa del Sol between the 18 and 24 September. The best golfers from Europe and the US came together for this exciting tournament. Held every two years, 2023 saw Spain host the competition for the very first time, and the European team retained the trophy, emerging as the winner for the third time in a row. If you want to find out more about the Solheim Cup 2023, keep reading.
Epic tie and victory for Europe
The Solheim Cup 2023 was a thrilling affair that kept golf enthusiasts in suspense for three intense days. Europe and the US tied with 14 points each, resulting in the European team retaining the trophy and marking the third consecutive victory for Europe. This is a feat that the US has achieved twice, between 1994-1998 and 2005-2009.
The 14-14 tie was considered a victory for Europe as, according to the rules, if it’s a draw the winner of the last contest retains the trophy. This unexpected outcome will go down in history, as it was the first time the game has ever ended in a tie. Both teams displayed an exceptional level of play and competition was fierce, right up until the last hole.
Carlota Ciganda: the star for team Europe
Source: EITB
One of the most outstanding players of the Solheim Cup 2023, winning the definitive point for Europe’s victory, was Spanish golfer Carlota Ciganda. With a very skillful performance, Ciganda achieved her dream of winning all amaetur and professional golf titles in Spain, and now also a Solheim Cup to remember. With four points, she was the most successful player of this year's tournament, leaving her mark on women’s golf forever. Carlota has played in the Solheim Cup six times and won playing for the European team four times.
From Navarra, Carlota Ciganda has become an undisputable idol in women’s golf in Spain, Europe and across the world. Her performance in the Solheim Cup 2023 was simply spectacular, demonstrating her talent and skill with every swing. Her performance was key to the European team’s success in retaining the trophy, making her a real hero.
The competition didn’t start well for captain Suzann Pettersen’s team as the US swept the foursomes 4-0 on the morning of the opening day. In the afternoon and the following day, Europe began to slowly fight its way back, until the individual matches when they reached a 8-8 draw. With the game still up for grabs, Sunday was a real rollercoaster. With 12 points to play for and the unpredictable match-play scoring system, anything could have happened. Leona Maguire didn’t fail, asserting herself as a key player in the team. Although many doubted the captain’s choice, Caroline Hardwall played decisively in the end. She showed courage on the last holes and scored a crucial point. Carlota’s game wasn’t easy at first, but at the last holes, the golfer from Navarra pulled out all the stops to give Europe an epic victory in the Costa del Sol.
Finca Cortesín, stage of the Solheim Cup 2023
Located in Casares, Finca Cortesín is a world-famous golf resort which hosted three editions of the European Tour’s Volvo World Match Play Championship and has been named one of the five best courses in Spain on numerous occasions by specialised media sources such as Golf World and Golf Digest. Its course covers 6,808 metres and underwent a thorough remodelling in 2017. The course is known for its superb condition and the challenge it poses through its ingenious design, an ideal complement to its attractive appearance. The 18-hole course is varied and there are no two holes the same, making the game entertaining and a pleasure to play. Finca Cortesín is the work of world-class designer Cabell Robinson who worked with Robert Trent Jones Inc. for years.
The legacy of the Solheim Cup 2023 in the Costa del Sol
The lively friendly atmosphere in the stands along with the faultless organisation of the event made this year’s competition an incredible experience both for players and spectators. The game was bursting with excitement and emotion, keeping everyone in suspense until the very last moment. The Costa del Sol proved to be the perfect setting to host an event of this magnitude.
The Solheim Cup also served to put the province of Malaga, aka the Costa del Golf, on the map, now regarded as one of the best golf destinations in the world. The Costa del Sol has more than 70 first-class golf courses, recognised as some of the best in Europe. The great weather, wide variety of complementary leisure activities and hotels catered to golf tourism make the region an unbeatable choice for international tournaments. Women’s golf in Andalusia and in the Costa del Sol keeps growing, with some of the best golf players in Spain taking on the role of ambassadors. Discover the Costa del Golf, the top destination for golf lovers in Europe.
