Dutch golf icon steps into leadership role alongside captain Anna Nordqvist as Europe prepares for historic home Solheim Cup at Bernardus Golf Club.
Anne van Dam, one of the most accomplished golfers in Dutch history, has been appointed Vice Captain for the European team competing in the 2026 Solheim Cup. The appointment marks a significant transition for the 29-year-old, who moves into a leadership position while the prestigious biennial team competition heads to her home nation for the first time.
Van Dam will support Anna Nordqvist of Sweden, who serves as team Captain, as Europe prepares for the event at Bernardus Golf Club in the Netherlands. The pairing brings together two distinguished European golfers at a moment of great importance for the LET Tour and women’s professional golf in Europe.
Leadership and Experience
Van Dam brings considerable experience to the Vice Captain role. The Dutch golfer boasts five LET Tour victories and extensive Solheim Cup experience at the highest competitive level. Her appointment reflects confidence in her ability to mentor and guide the European squad through one of golf’s most competitive team events.
At 29 years old, Van Dam has already established herself as one of the longest hitters in women’s golf—a reputation that extends beyond the course into her new administrative responsibilities. Her transition from active competitor to leadership comes at a natural juncture in her career, allowing her to contribute to the sport in a different capacity while bringing firsthand knowledge of competitive pressure and team dynamics.
Historic Home Venue
The decision to stage the 2026 Solheim Cup in the Netherlands represents a historic milestone for Dutch golf. Bernardus Golf Club, which opened in 2020 and was designed by renowned course architect Kyle Phillips, will host the competition for the first time in the event’s prestigious history. The venue has never previously held a Solheim Cup, making this a landmark occasion for the Dutch golfing community.
Hosting an event of this magnitude on home soil provides significant momentum for professional golf in the Netherlands. For Van Dam and her fellow Dutch players, the opportunity to compete—or now to lead—at an international championship in their own country carries special significance. The Bernardus layout, with its championship pedigree and modern design, promises to provide an excellent stage for European and American teams to compete at their highest level.
The 2026 Solheim Cup will showcase Europe’s depth of talent under Nordqvist’s captaincy, with Van Dam providing invaluable support and guidance as the team prepares for what promises to be a memorable competition on Dutch turf.