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Halmstad Golf Club confirmed as 2022 Scandinavian Mixed Hosted by Henrik and Annika venue

Skyview of Halmstad Golf Club, located in Tylösand

Date: Friday September 17, 2021

The innovative event, co-sanctioned by the European Tour and Ladies European Tour, features a field of 78 men and 78 women playing for one prize fund and one trophy. Earlier this year, Northern Ireland’s Jonathan Caldwell triumphed in the inaugural edition hosted at Vallda Golf and Country Club near Gothenburg.

The famous North Course at Halmstad, located in Tylösand, previously provided the backdrop for the 2007 Solheim Cup, where tournament host Annika Sörenstam contributed 2.5 points for Team Europe.

Designed by Rafael Sundblom, the father of Swedish golf course architecture, it was given the seal of approval from the Swedish Golf Federation in May of 1938 and was officially opened for play in September of the same year.

First time for Halmstad Golf Club to host an European Tour event, but not a bit unprepared.
It is the first time that Halmstad will host the European Tour, but over the years it has staged events on the European Challenge Tour and Ladies European Tour, most recently welcoming amateur golfers for the ANNIKA Invitational Europe in 2017.

“I’m excited for the next edition of the Scandinavian Mixed and to be playing at Halmstad Golf Club, a course that hosted the Solheim Cup and the ANNIKA Invitational Europe a few years ago. I know it will be a great week for everyone involved,” said Sörenstam.

“Bringing women and men together in a combined professional tournament was a huge success and we learned a lot from the event this year. Henrik and I want to bring our game to the younger generation in Sweden and we can’t wait to have fans back next year to enjoy the special atmosphere.”

Henrik Stenson, an 11-time European Tour winner, added: “It’s great that we are able to take the Scandinavian Mixed to Halmstad next summer. I have played some junior events at the course but never at this level, and I think it will be an excellent host venue for the European Tour and Ladies European Tour, both in terms of golf course and the whole setup within the region.

“It was a lot of fun to host the tournament with Annika earlier this year but the only thing missing for us was the crowds not being able to attend. We are both looking forward to welcoming back the Swedish fans next year for an even bigger and better event.

“We are in it for the long run and our hope is that through the Scandinavian Mixed, Annika and I can help inspire the next generation of golfers in Sweden and around the world. Our game is inclusive in so many ways and this tournament continues to highlight that fact on a global stage.”

Jonas Bergman, Mayor of Halmstad, said: “When the opportunity arose for Halmstad to host the 2022 edition of the Scandinavian Mixed Hosted by Henrik and Annika, we could only see benefits of being involved with this new concept.

“The ongoing pandemic has made a stamp on our society and the way we live, but to our great joy, golf has still been practised and has grown even stronger in Sweden and on an international level.

The mixed format of this event brings different groups together in our society, with various ages and a focus on inclusion and equality, all of which we are proud to be associated with moving forward.”

European Tour Communications

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Team Europe tramples on Toledo

TOLEDO, OHIO - SEPTEMBER 06: Team Europe poses with the Solheim Cup after their win over Team USA during day three of the Solheim Cup at the Inverness Club on September 06, 2021 in Toledo, Ohio. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)

Fresh off the last round these players share their excitement.

Madeline Sagstrom:

Q. Madelene, when we talked coming into this week you said you wanted to be yourself and let yourself go out and enjoy it. Did you enjoy it out there?

MADELENE SAGSTROM: It’s been a great week. The team has obviously done amazing. I haven’t really contributed until today. I was saying on the range this morning, hold on a second, I need to be myself. I need to be myself out there. I can’t play somebody else’s game, I can’t be somebody else’s character. I need to be myself, and I really found that today. I grinded hard. Ally put up a really good fight, so we had a really solid game going, and I’m really proud of myself.

Q. You said the last time when you were in Des Moines, the crowds, that there was so much cheering against you and that’s kind of unnerving, but you said this time you’d be a little bit more prepared. How do you think you did that that?

MADELENE SAGSTROM: Yeah, last time I was a rookie on Tour and I’ve had four years under my belt. It’s definitely tough. I’m kind of — they’re still cheering for me, but you still hear, “good shot,” when you do well, but it’s quite loud out there, I’m not going to lie.

Q. How pleased are you with that victory?

MADELENE SAGSTROM: Oh, I’m very happy right now. I didn’t have the best start to the week. I’ve been playing really well. We’ve been playing well, both with Nanna and with Georgia yesterday. We just couldn’t pull a win through, so I’m really happy that I went out and got a point for the team today.

Q. With everything that happened, how important was it for you to come out here on singles and get that point?

MADELENE SAGSTROM: Well, I was really happy Catriona decided to put me out first thing Sunday morning, just showing that she believes in me, showing that the team has got my back, so that was really nice. We put up a great fight, and it was just nice today to be able to go out — I played some really good golf today. Ally did, too, so we had a really good game, but I’m really happy to be on the winning side.

Q. Give us a bit of insight into how it was this morning in the team room. What sort of things did Catriona say to you? It’s looking pretty good with blue on the board right now.

MADELENE SAGSTROM: I think the thing she’s focused on in singles is go out, it’s a new game, obviously you can see scoreboards, but your point is the only thing that matters. You go out in your match and that’s all you can do, and now we’re going to be there for everybody else.

She just has so much belief in us. She’s said that from day one. It’s such a great atmosphere to be around, and it just really fuels both my confidence and that I believe in myself so much, the fact that she believes in us.

TOLEDO, OHIO – SEPTEMBER 06: Anna Nordqvist of Team Europe and Madelene Sagstrom of Team Europe celebrate with the Solheim Cup after winning over Team USA during day three of the Solheim Cup at the Inverness Club on September 06, 2021 in Toledo, Ohio. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)

Sophia Popov:

Q. Just over a year ago you came here to Inverness and caddied for your friend Anne van Dam. Did you think in your wildest dreams you would be here today part of the winning Solheim Cup team?

SOPHIA POPOV: Probably not, no. I couldn’t even predict what was going to happen the week after and the week after that, more importantly.

So I think that dream just became real once I won the Open, and before that I never in a million years would have thought I was going to be standing here and just be teeing it up with all these amazing girls, not only on our team, obviously on the American team. They’re so stacked, and it was just — it was just so enjoyable. Such an amazing moment.

Q. What do you think it was about the makeup of your team and the players and the character they have that produced this result?

SOPHIA POPOV: I think we have a great mix of experience and obviously rookies, and we have someone like Leona who just came out and said, All right, I’m going to snatch every point, or at least a half.

I think just all of us, we fight so hard, even myself. I know I had three tough matches, but three tough battles that could have gone either way.

And today I tried everything I could, and that fight, I think all of us have that in us, and I think that’s what makes the team so special, and I think it starts with leaders like Beanie, like Suzann who’s been in that position two years ago, and Catherine.

I think it’s just a great balance of experience and newbies.

TOLEDO, OHIO – SEPTEMBER 06: Sophia Popov of Team Europe celebrates with the Solheim Cup after winning over Team USA during day three of the Solheim Cup at the Inverness Club on September 06, 2021 in Toledo, Ohio. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)

Matilda Castren:

Q. Retained the Cup for Europe; how does it feel?

MATILDA CASTREN: It feels amazing. It’s just crazy, crazy. I can’t believe I made that putt. I knew it was important. I knew it was going to break a little bit left.

Me and Mikey read the putt perfectly and it went in. It’s just such an amazing feeling, and so proud to be part of this team.

Q. Tell us what was going through your mind the last few holes as it was so tense and you know that anything can happen. What was going through your mind the last few holes?

MATILDA CASTREN: I was just trying to play my best. She’s a tough competitor, and I knew she was going to make some putts and make some birdies and hit some good shots.

I was just trying to play my best and give it all I’ve got and hit some good shots and roll some good putts, and some of them went in.

Q. Give us a sense of how your week has been. What are some of the experiences that you had? How do you feel standing at the back of 18 now being a Solheim Cup team player?

MATILDA CASTREN: It’s been such a cool experience. I mean, it’s more than I could have asked for, playing with Anna in the foursomes and four-ball matches. It was so much fun, and we did great.

Just the team atmosphere is so great. Everyone is so supportive of one another, and just the chemistry is amazing. Our bus rides, we were listening to music, and it was just like everyone was hoping the best for each other, and yeah, I think it’s the team really that made this happen.

We worked really well together all of us and we got all along and had so much fun together. It’s just been an amazing experience, and I’m so, so happy I made it.

Q. How much of a different player do you feel you are after these days? Do you feel more confident perhaps?

MATILDA CASTREN: I mean, it’s been intense, an immense amount of pressure, especially today. I was really nervous these last few holes, and I think — I mean, I learned a lot playing with Anna and just playing under pressure. That’s always something you want to do, and when you perform well under pressure, that’s even better.

I’m definitely coming out a more confident player after this week and just a lot of experiences and just amazing week.

Q. You have retained the Solheim Cup for Team Europe on U.S. soil. How does that sound?

MATILDA CASTREN: That sounds amazing. We have Suzann’s photo when she made the putt at Gleneagles. It’s in our locker room when you get out of the locker. I look at it every day, and I hope one day that can be me and I hope I can handle the pressure.

To have retained the Cup, I mean, it’s such an amazing feeling. There was a little part of me that thought I wasn’t able to do it, but I don’t know, I guess just the pressure, and it just made me focus a little bit more, and just rolled those putts in.

TOLEDO, OHIO – SEPTEMBER 06: Matilda Castren of Team Europe celebrates with the Solheim Cup after winning over Team USA during day three of the Solheim Cup at the Inverness Club on September 06, 2021 in Toledo, Ohio. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
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Ladies European Tour

Nanna Madsen: “The crowd was crazy”

TOLEDO, OHIO - SEPTEMBER 05: Nanna Koerstz Madsen of Team Europe hugs Carlota Ciganda of Team Europe after winning their match during the Fourball Match on day two of the Solheim Cup at the Inverness Club on September 05, 2021 in Toledo, Ohio. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)

Inverness Club -Team Europe

Q. Do you know what the difference was that enabled you guys to pull it out today?

CARLOTA CIGANDA: Yeah, I thought the Americans were going to come out strong after the morning they had, so we knew it was going to be loud out there because with 3-1 in the morning it was tough for us, so I think I’m quite happy.

We are happy to get at least two points on the board, hopefully two and a half. I mean, it’s tough playing here, lots of fans. Due to COVID not many European fans. But I think we all fight hard, we try our best, we play with passion, and hopefully it’s going to be enough for tomorrow.

Q. Inverness itself, the course doesn’t make it very easy. How crucial were the birdies you made at 12 and 13 and then your birdies at 15 and 16?

NANNA KOERSTZ-MADSEN: Well, they were like turnaround points. That birdie on 12 kind of got us a little bit of momentum. Carlota hit a great shot into 13. That just started the whole thing, and then we made a couple good putts in the end.

So that was — but it is a tough course. You can see there’s mistakes out there.

Q. I saw the emotion as you came off that green. What did that mean to you?

CARLOTA CIGANDA: I think it’s really important to get that point. I think at some point Team USA was playing really good, so I think going into tomorrow, winning these two days, I think it’s key.

I had a great time today with Nanna. I think we both played great. When one was (indiscernible) one was in place. I’m very happy to win a point for Europe, yeah.

Q. Were you aware of the importance of that particular match and where it ranked going into tomorrow?

CARLOTA CIGANDA: Yeah, I tried not to look too much to the scoreboard, I think. You just want to focus on your match and try to get that point. I gave my 200 percent as I always do playing for Europe, and I think it was a very tight match.

I think we played some great golf. Jess and Megan, they played some really great golf, and at the end a couple putts dropped in for us and we got the win, so very, very happy.

Q. If Ian Poulter is Mr. Ryder Cup, Carlota Ciganda is Mrs. Solheim Cup. How was it playing alongside her with all her passion?

NANNA KOERSTZ-MADSEN: It was so much fun. Carlota has so much passion, and she’s like, vamos, let’s go. It was really cool. We really match each other really good out there. If someone made a mistake then the other one kind of took over. It was a lot of fun.

Madsen and Ciganda walk us through the day

Q. Take us through the day, both of you, from your vantage points, back and forth between the entire match. No one ever got more than 1-up and you guys came out the victor. What was it like from your perspective?

CARLOTA CIGANDA: I mean, it was a really tight match, obviously. The Americans, they were happy they had a great morning, so we knew it was going to be a tough afternoon, very loud.

We tried our best, and we are really happy with the scores this afternoon, especially getting the half point in the last match. I think we played great. We were in places most of the time, if I was off, she was in a great place, if she was off, I was on the green, as well. I think we played a really good four-ball. Yes, they played great, but one has to win, and at the end we made a few more putts, and Europe won.

Q. Nanna, from your perspective?

NANNA KOERSTZ-MADSEN: Well, there’s not much different from my perspective. As Carlota said, if I was in trouble, Carlota played great, and the other way, if she was in trouble, I did some good stuff.

Yeah, the other girls played really good, too, so it was really a fun match going back and forth. The crowd was crazy.

Q. Carlota, whenever you face a putt where you have to make to maybe halve the hole or something, what’s going through your mind?

CARLOTA CIGANDA: I think when you play Solheim Cup you just try to make every putt, and that’s what I’m trying to do this week. I think my brain is more focused. I know what I want to do all the time. I think that’s why I played pretty good.

These greens are not easy. I think once the ball gets to the hole, there was some kind of break, so I think it’s not as easy to make putts, but it’s the same for everyone. I think we played solid, and we are ready for tomorrow.

Q. Carlota, you’ve played in a lot of these. Can you remember a Solheim Cup where so many matches went to 18?

CARLOTA CIGANDA: I don’t think so. I think I was talking to a few of the girls yesterday how good the golf is yesterday, seven matches went to 18, I don’t know how many today but a few, as well.

I think we all play — European team all play in the States against all the players, so I think we have one of the best teams that we’ve had in the last few years, and we don’t have any fear to play against them. We are happy to be here, and we are ready to fight.

How will it look heading into the next round?

Q. Nanna, how confident do you feel heading into singles play tomorrow and how confident are you with your team where you’re at heading into Monday?

NANNA KOERSTZ-MADSEN: I’m really glad for the win today. Yesterday was a tough day, but we still played great yesterday, so I’m confident that I can go out tomorrow and bring a point to the European team.

Q. What was the difference there on that closing stretch?

CARLOTA CIGANDA: I think we stayed patient. We knew it was going to be a tough match, especially with the Americans having a great morning. We knew it was going to be loud. I think we played great, played some great golf.

The last few holes I think we birdied the 13th, 15th, 16, and were 4- or 5-under on the back nine, so just great golf.

Q. You played in that match yesterday with Madelene Sagstrom. How was the team able to put that behind you and play so well today?

NANNA KOERSTZ-MADSEN: Well, there was nothing to do about the thing yesterday, so as Catriona was saying, just put it behind you. Whatever happens happens, and now we’ve just got to focus on today and try and win as many points as we can.

Q. You’re a veteran in these matches; you said earlier this week this is the strongest team you’ve been a part of. What will the team need to do to get the win here on Monday?

CARLOTA CIGANDA: I think we have to come here tomorrow. The Americans are playing singles matches very good, and it’s still very tight. I know we still have the lead, but winning on U.S. soil is not easy to do, and we’ll have to bring the attitude that we just want to win every match. Don’t look at the scoreboard, just everyone go get their point, and hopefully that’s enough.

Interview from Asap Sports

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Ladies Tours LPGA Tour

Deb Vangellow receives 2021 Ellen Griffin Rolex Award in recognition of her dedication to the teaching of golf.

Deb Vangellow becomes the 2021 Ellen Griffin Rolex Award Recipient

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla., Aug. 24, 2021 – Deb Vangellow, a LPGA Master Professional and Director of Golf Instruction at Riverbend Country Club in Houston, Texas, joins an elite group of her peers as the recipient of the 2021 Ellen Griffin Rolex Award.

The Ellen Griffin Rolex Award, instituted by the LPGA Professionals membership in 1989 to honor the late teaching professional Ellen Griffin, recognizes an individual, male or female, who made a major contribution to the teaching of golf and emulates Griffin’s spirit, love and dedication to students, teachers, teaching skills and the game of golf.

Vangellow honored by LPGA after more than 30 years as teaching professional
“I am so thrilled to be the 2021 LPGA Ellen Griffin Award recipient. I did not know Ellen personally, but have numerous friends who did and shared her inspiring story about the terrific Golf Education Programming she led on ‘The Farm’ in Greensboro, North Carolina,” said Vangellow. “Golf was her subject matter, but she taught people. For Ellen, the frustrations of golf were always overcome by fun. This very thing has been so very instrumental with the wonderful peer group I am so lucky to have who nominated me for this award. These special LPGA Members, many of whom are on this grand list of award recipients, are dear friends I had the fantastic fortune to work with in our LPGA Education Program. I am so grateful for their guidance and support and cherish the 30+ years we had together. Forever friends, for sure! Thank you so much for this award. I will appreciate it forever and will fondly remember Ellen Griffin’s outstanding teaching of golf.”

LPGA Master Professional/PGA Honorary Director Vangellow holds a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Science in Health/Physical Education/Coaching and Educational Leadership/Psychology from the University of Northern Iowa and Miami (Ohio) University, respectively. A multi-sport athlete who was a scholarship recipient, captain and letter winner in soccer and track & field, Vangellow elected to devote her career path to develop into a top golf educator. Her experiences reflect this endeavor.

Educational professional career of Deb Vangellow in the field of golf
After holding various positions in higher education, Vangellow coached Division I collegiate golf at the University of Northern Iowa and led the American Junior Team that traveled to Europe in 1996 as part of the International Sport for Understanding Program. In 1997, Vangellow was honored as a recipient of the Young Alumni Award at the University of Northern Iowa and was a 3-time LPGA Central Section Teacher of the Year in 2002, 2009, and 2012. She was also named the 2012 LPGA National Teacher of the Year. Vangellow was recently inducted into the UNI Athletics Hall of Fame, the UNI School of HPELS Hall of Excellence, and the Fairport High School Hall of Fame.

In addition to teaching men, women, senior and junior golfers of all skill levels individually and in groups at Riverbend Country Club, Vangellow was the first ever National Vice President for the LPGA Professionals membership and served as the elected National President. She was a longtime lead instructor in the LPGA Global Education Program, the industry leading teacher training program for golf professionals in the U.S. and Korea, and is a U.S. Kids Golf Master Teacher. In 2016, she joined the team at Callaway Golf Company as a Master Staff Professional promoting their Women’s Equipment Line.

“Receiving this award is an unbelievable honor, especially to be among so many past recipients I call friends and mentors,” added Vangellow. “I stand on the shoulders of these folks, without a doubt, and feel fortunate to do what I get to do and for the people I have met along the way. I am so grateful for this recognition. Lastly, many thanks to Rolex and the LPGA.”

Past recipients of the Ellen Griffin Rolex Award include: Peggy Kirk Bell, 1989; Linda Craft, 1990; Shirley Englehorn, 1991; Harvey Penick, 1992; Goldie Bateson, 1993; Carol Clark Johnson, 1994; Joanne Winter, 1995; Ann Casey Johnstone, 1996; Dr. DeDe Owens, 1997; Shirley Spork, 1998; Betty Hicks, 1999; Gary Wiren, 2000; Penny Zavichas, 2001; Annette Thompson, 2002; Dr. Barbara B. Smith, 2003; Marjorie Burns, 2004; Pat Lange, 2005; Donna White, 2006; Betsy Cullen, 2007; Lynn Marriott, 2008; Kay McMahon, 2009; Mary Beth McGirr, 2010; Dr. Debbie Crews, 2011; Dr. Betsy Clark, 2012; Kathy Murphy, 2013; Kerry Graham, 2014; Dana Rader, 2015; Pia Nilsson, 2016; Sandy LaBauve, 2017; Jane Frost, 2018; Nancy Quarcelino, 2019; and Renee Powell, 2020.

ABOUT ROLEX

Rolex is the official timepiece of the LPGA and sponsors many of the LPGA’s annual awards, including the Ellen Griffin Rolex Award, Rolex Player of the Year, Louise Suggs Rolex Rookie of the Year and the Rolex ANNIKA Major Award. Rolex honors the LPGA Tour’s Rolex First-Time Winners and is a supporting sponsor of the annual LPGA Professionals National Championship. At tournament sites, Rolex has a presence by providing the official time at selected tournaments and advertises in many event programs. In addition, Rolex is a Global Partner of Solheim Cup and the presenting sponsor of the World Golf Rankings.

ABOUT THE LPGA

The LPGA is the world’s leading professional golf organization for women, with a goal to change the face of golf by making the sport more accessible and inclusive.

Created in 1950 by 13 Founders, the Association celebrates a diverse and storied history. The LPGA Tour competes across the globe, reaching television audiences in more than 220 countries. The Symetra Tour, the LPGA’s official qualifying tour, consistently produces a pipeline of talent ready for the world stage. The LPGA also holds a joint-venture collaboration with the Ladies European Tour (LET), increasing playing opportunities for female golfers in Europe. Across the three Tours, the LPGA represents players in more than 60 countries.

Additionally, the LPGA Foundation has empowered and supported girls and women since 1991, most notably through LPGA*USGA Girls Golf, the only national program of its kind, which annually engages with nearly 100,000 girls. The LPGA Amateur Golf Association and LPGA Women’s Network provide virtual and in-person connections to female golfers around the world, while LPGA Professionals are educators, business leaders and gamechangers dedicated to growing the game of golf for everyone.

Press Release by the LPGA Professionals Communication

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Ladies Tours LPGA Tour

LPGA announces Cindy Miller as 2021 Nancy Lopez Golf Achievement Award Recipient

LPGA Professionals member, Cindy Miller gives back in the meaning of Nancy Lopez Award and becomes the 2021 recipient.

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla., Aug. 24, 2021 – The LPGA Professionals announced today Cindy Miller as the recipient of the 2021 Nancy Lopez Golf Achievement Award, which recognizes a LPGA Professional who gives back to the game in the spirit of Nancy Lopez.

The Nancy Lopez Golf Achievement Award was created in 2007 and is given to a LPGA Professional who emulates qualities valued by Lopez: leadership, passion, giving, and approachability. Lopez is a 48-time LPGA Tour winner and four-time Rolex Player of the Year. She was inducted into the LPGA Tour and World Golf Halls of Fame in 1987 and captained the victorious 2005 U.S. Solheim Cup Team.

LPGA Professionals member recognized for giving back in the spirit of Nancy Lopez
“I first met Nancy Lopez while playing collegiate golf. When I watched her play, it was like watching someone float through the course while making almost every putt she looked at. She became one of the friendliest Tour players I have ever met and has been a hero of mine for a very long time,” said Miller. “She has that special charisma that only a few possess. Her leadership, passion, giving and approachability are qualities I have been striving to emulate my whole career. I am thrilled and honored to receive this award.”

Miller is the current Section President for the LPGA Professionals Northeast section, with a two-term history of serving as the Northeast Section Vice President before that. A member of the ‘Legends of the LPGA,’ Miller is a Certified Behavior, Motivation, and Emotional Intelligence Professional who teaches individuals, teams, and corporations to improve performance and profitability. She also runs a LPGA*USGA Girls Golf site and has written for numerous golf publications as a contributing columnist.

She has also been named a Top-50 Teacher by the Women’s Golf Journal and won LPGA National Teacher of the Year (2010), LPGA Northeast Section Teacher of the Year (2001, 2005, and 2010) and LPGA Northeast Player of the Year (2005 and 2007).

Past recipients of the Nancy Lopez Golf Achievement Award include: Debbie O’Connell (2007), Troy Beck (2008), Patti Benson (2009), Lynn Stellman (2010), Malia Folquet (2011), Suzy Whaley (2012), Marvol Barnard (2013), Angela Aulenti (2014), Teresa Zamboni (2015), Donna White (2016), Sandy LaBauve (2017), Lynn Marriott (2018), Louise Ball (2019) and Dana Rader (2020).

ABOUT NANCY LOPEZ GOLF

The Nancy Lopez Golf (NLG) line provides unprecedented choice to the woman golfer in the selection of golf equipment and apparel. The four-step NLG Match Play Process also provides selection in club configuration to best fit the game of each woman. Nancy Lopez Golf embodies the spirit and energy of women’s golf and of its namesake, Nancy Lopez, who captured the imagination of people everywhere with her remarkable playing career and the genuine warmth of her charm. For more information about Nancy Lopez Golf, visit https://www.NancyLopezGolf.com.

ABOUT THE LPGA

The LPGA is the world’s leading professional golf organization for women, with a goal to change the face of golf by making the sport more accessible and inclusive.

Created in 1950 by 13 Founders, the Association celebrates a diverse and storied history. The LPGA Tour competes across the globe, reaching television audiences in more than 220 countries. The Symetra Tour, the LPGA’s official qualifying tour, consistently produces a pipeline of talent ready for the world stage. The LPGA also holds a joint-venture collaboration with the Ladies European Tour (LET), increasing playing opportunities for female golfers in Europe. Across the three Tours, the LPGA represents players in more than 60 countries.

Additionally, the LPGA Foundation has empowered and supported girls and women since 1991, most notably through LPGA*USGA Girls Golf, the only national program of its kind, which annually engages with nearly 100,000 girls. The LPGA Amateur Golf Association and LPGA Women’s Network provide virtual and in-person connections to female golfers around the world, while LPGA Professionals are educators, business leaders and gamechangers dedicated to growing the game of golf for everyone.

Press Release transcript by the LPGA Professionals Communication

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Ladies Tours

Brittany Altomare, Mina Harigae and Yealimi Noh Added to 2021 U.S. Solheim Cup Team.

Brittany Altomare and Nelly Korda who participated at the 2019 U.S. Solheim Cup, will play together this year in Ohaio as well.

CARNOUSTIE, Scotland, Aug. 23, 2021 – USA Captain Pat Hurst has selected Brittany Altomare, Mina Harigae and Yealimi Noh as her captain’s picks for the 2021 Solheim Cup, to be held Sept. 4-6 at Inverness Club in Toledo, Ohio.

Altomare will make her second appearance for Team USA at the Solheim Cup, following her 2-1-1 performance at Gleneagles in 2019. Harigae and Noh will make their Solheim Cup debuts.

“This was an incredibly difficult decision, but I’m very happy to have Brittany, Mina and Yealimi as my picks for Team USA,” said Hurst. “Brittany proved that she’s the ultimate team player in 2019 and really came through for us at Gleneagles. Mina and Yealimi have played so well over the last two years, and just because they’re Solheim Cup rookies on paper doesn’t mean they’re rookies inside the ropes. I have no doubt they’ll be great competitors at Inverness.”

Top players that automatically classify to play the 2021 U.S. Solheim Cup

These three players join the nine automatic qualifiers for Team USA who were named following the completion of play at the AIG Women’s Open. Nelly Korda, Danielle Kang, Ally Ewing, Austin Ernst, Lexi Thompson, Jessica Korda and Megan Khang qualified off the USA Solheim Cup Team Standings, while Lizette Salas and Jennifer Kupcho qualified off the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings.

Stacy Lewis also joins Team USA as third Assistant Captain.

Additionally, Hurst has selected Stacy Lewis as the third Assistant Captain for Team USA. She joins the previously announced Angela Stanford and Michelle Wie West. Lewis is a 13-time LPGA Tour winner and has represented the USA on four Solheim Cup Teams (2011, 2013, 2015, 2017). She was named to the team in 2019 but served as an unofficial assistant captain after withdrawing from competition due to injury.

“I am really honored that Pat asked me to be part of Team USA as an assistant captain,” said Lewis. “The opportunity to learn from Pat and the other captains in 2019 was fascinating and while I know that I can still keep up with the players, I will always welcome any chance to wear the Red, White and Blue at the Solheim Cup. I can’t thank Pat enough for trusting me and having me join her team.”

The biennial Solheim Cup is the most prestigious international women’s professional golf team event. In 2019, Team Europe earned a 14.5-13.5 victory at Gleneagles in Scotland, a breathtaking win that saw Suzann Pettersen knock in the winning putt on the final hole of the final match. Team USA leads Team Europe, 10-6, all-time in Solheim Cup competition.

With a full week of action at the 2021 Solheim Cup, fans can purchase various ticket and hospitality packages to enjoy every activity in Toledo at Inverness Club. New in 2021 is the Meijer Pavilion, which will give ticketholders a 300-degree view of the surrounding holes, upgraded food and beverage options and much more. Information on ticket options and prices is available at SolheimCupUSA.com.

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About The Solheim Cup

The Solheim Cup combines the tradition and prestige of the game of golf with passion for one’s country and continent. This biennial international match-play competition features the best U.S. players from the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) Tour and the best European players from the Ladies European Tour (LET).

The Solheim Cup is named in honor of Karsten Solheim, the founder of Karsten Manufacturing Corporation, which makes PING golf equipment. In 1990, the Solheim family, in conjunction with the LPGA and the LET, developed the concept and became the title sponsor for the Solheim Cup. Today, the Global Partners of the Solheim Cup are PING, Rolex and Marathon Petroleum.

Held every two years, the event has grown into the most prestigious international women’s professional golf team event. The 2021 Solheim Cup will be held at Inverness Club in Toledo, Ohio, on Sept. 4-6. In 2019, Team Europe took a thrilling 14.5-13.5 victory at Gleneagles in Scotland, a thrilling win that came down to the final putt. Team USA leads Team Europe, 10-6, all-time in Solheim Cup competition.

For more information, visit www.solheimcup.com.

About Inverness Club

Inverness Club, located in Toledo, Ohio, has forged a place of distinction in professional golf. Opening in 1903, the historic club has been the site of twelve championships, including four U.S. Opens and two PGA Championships. Byron Nelson, who served as head golf professional from 1940 to 1944, recognized Inverness Club as his home course. S.P. Jermain, their first Board President, was credited with conceiving the idea of the Ryder Cup. The championship course was designed by the renowned architect Donald Ross. Inverness Club successfully hosted the 2019 U.S. Junior Amateur and is the host site of the 2021 Solheim Cup.

Press Release by the Tour Media, LPGA

Categories
Ladies Tours

Charley Hull: Super Swings

England's Charley Hull watches her second shot from the fairway on the 15th hole during round two on the second day of the 45th AIG Women's Open at Carnoustie, Scotland on August 20, 2021. (Photo by ANDY BUCHANAN / AFP) (Photo by ANDY BUCHANAN/AFP via Getty Images)

Charlie Hull was cut at the AIG Women’s Open 2021 and didn’t land on that leaderboard. Despite her recent performance, she is still a player to keep an eye on. We caught her sharing her swings to her social media Sunday. Keep swinging Charley!

Categories
Ladies Tours

Anna Nordqvist: “It was going to be my time”

Sweden's Anna Nordqvist celebrates with the trophy after her victory in the Women's British Open, after a final round 69 at Carnoustie, Scotland on August 22, 2021. - Sweden's Anna Nordqvist won her third major title with a final round 69 to finish on 12-under par at the Women's British Open at Carnoustie on Sunday. (Photo by ANDY BUCHANAN / AFP) (Photo by ANDY BUCHANAN/AFP via Getty Images)

Q. Your wins are all majors —

ANNA NORDQVIST: Yeah, it’s been a long time. I had a good opportunity last year to win and didn’t pull through. You question whether it’s going to happen or to the again but knowing it’s the British Open, it’s been worth the wait.

Q. How special was the putt on 18?

ANNA NORDQVIST: Me and my caddie, Paul, were chatting with Nanna was putting. It just seemed so unreal and just to have a little tap-in for the win, like I couldn’t ask for anything better. Just to share the experience with him and knowing how hard he’s worked, and keeping patient all these years, yeah, it’s such a great experience sharing that with close friends and family.

Q. Four years ago at Kingsbarns you were quite ill and you were determined to make the Solheim Cup team. From the memories to now — how proud are you of that?

ANNA NORDQVIST: Yeah I got mono in July 2017. I found that out during the U.S. Open. I was sitting up sleeping at that time because I was coughing so bad but I played it through and I really wanted to make the Solheim Cup team. So I battled through Kingsbarns. Kingsbarns and Carnoustie is probably my two favourite courses in the world. I really wanted to be there because I really wanted to play in the Solheim Cup, and then ended up winning Evian in the same stretch.

I don’t think a lot of people realised how tough that was, and it took me a good three years just having no energy and don’t feel like you have the mental strength or you don’t have that extra gear that I’ve always been used to having.

COVID was a blessing and a curse, because it made me slow down my tempo a little bit, and I could be home a little bit more than I have been, and I’ve been pro since 2009, so just having — feel like I’ve been home; I haven’t been home for nine weeks, so I’m dying to go home tomorrow.

Q. At the start of the week, were you excited about coming here? You must have fancied your chances?

ANNA NORDQVIST: I played well so well during Scottish Open last week, it was blowing hard especially the first three days. Just didn’t feel like I capitalised on some of the opportunities that I had and ended up finishing 12, and I was disappointed because I played well. Knowing I hit the ball really well in that tough wind last week, and then the first two practice rounds here were pretty brutal. So Carnoustie gave us a little bit of a break, but I love links golf and I think Carnoustie is such a good golf course and to be able to pull it through here, it just feels even more special.

Q. Three majors; is this more special?

ANNA NORDQVIST: I think this is the most special one. Just because it’s taken me a couple years and I’ve fought so hard and questioned whether I was doing the right things. Also, knowing like how my caddie, Paul, he’s been working so hard and I really wanted to do it for him, too.

My husband has been supporting me so much, too, and all friends and family, and having spectators back and feeling that adrenaline kicking again I think this is definitely my most special win.

Q. Golf can be a cruel game, Nanna on last, did you have any words for Nanna on that finish?

ANNA NORDQVIST: No, Nanna played really well. She made a lot of great up-and-downs, a great up-and-down on 17 and a couple good ones in the beginning. She’s a great player. She’s going to play well in the future. It’s tough to see that, finishing with a double. But she did really play well today.

Q. Felt inevitable there would be a playoff, how did you keep the focus?

ANNA NORDQVIST: The only thing I could really control was myself and it was going to be my time. It was going to be my time. Just try to do the best could I and see where it ended up, but I’m glad it didn’t go to a playoff because I saw there was quite a few players at 11.

Q. Do you look at the leaderboard much?

ANNA NORDQVIST: I tried not to but I was definitely aware where things were going, and I knew the last couple holes where I was standing.

Categories
Ladies European Tour Ladies Tours Live

Charley Hull: “I prefer playing links when it’s windy.”

Charley Hull during the Pro-Am round in Carnoustie, in Scotland, at the 2021 AIG Women's Open

AIG WOMEN’S OPEN

August 18, 2021

Charley Hull

Carnoustie, Angus, Scotland, UK

Press Conference

THE MODERATOR: We are joined by Charley Hull here at the AIG Women’s Open. You’ve had a chance to go out and see Carnoustie. How much are you looking forward to play this weekend and hopefully contending?

CHARLEY HULL: Yeah, I played this morning in the Pro-Am. It was really fun. It was in great condition. It’s good. It’s playing a good length, like it’s not too long either. Even though it’s playing nearly 400 yards longer than they played it last time, gets. I like it. It’s in great condition.

THE MODERATOR: The challenge, is that something you relish?

CHARLEY HULL: Usually I find them very challenging but after last week I feel like I’m in a good head space. Last week’s golf course was good and felt it was a great warmup for this week. I feel confident in my game at the minute.

Q. Wanted to get your view on Nelly Korda’s performances this summer and how do you feel getting drawn with her? Is that a good thing, recognition of your profile? How do you see it?

CHARLEY HULL: Yeah, played with her quite a few times this year. She’s playing really good. It’s really good what she’s doing for the game. She’s good fun to play with. I really enjoy it. It’s great.

Q. What do you mean, just raising the profile of the game?

CHARLEY HULL: Yeah, like winning. It’s good to see like an American player like playing really well. I just think it’s good. Like she’s a nice girl.

Q. We saw there that the prize fund for the competition has gone up quite significantly. Obviously this is a great thing for women’s golf, but how much do you feel that women’s golf’s is on the rise, and is getting that recognition?

CHARLEY HULL: Yeah, I think it’s brilliant. Obviously I think the prize fund has gone up, what is it — what has it gone up to? Next year it’s going to go up to 6.8. I think that’s brilliant, and a bit this year. I think it’s great. It’s getting a lot more recognisation [sic] which is good. I think it deserves that. Yeah, I think it’s brilliant.

Q. You spoke about going out with Nelly Korda. How significant could that be for your game in terms of raising your game this week?

CHARLEY HULL: Yeah, like I said, I don’t really take too much notice of who I play with, as long as they are not slow, I enjoy it, and Nelly is a fast player, so it will be good fun.

Q. You’ve had a chance to get a bit of a feel for Carnoustie. What do you make of it overall, the course, and it’s reputation? What have you made of it so far?

CHARLEY HULL: It’s really good. Great condition. The fairways are playing firm and the greens are playing soft. Be nice if they could get the greens a bit more firmer. Yeah, I just think it’s in great condition. It’s nice. Hopefully the wind stays up as well. I prefer playing links when it’s windy.

Q. And what are your hopes for this week?

CHARLEY HULL: Obviously I would like to go and win. I feel like my game is in good condition. My main goal this week is to go out and have fun. I play my best golf when I’m having fun and smiling. That’s my main focus.

Q. Just picking up on the prize money, do you think the women’s game is closing in on the men’s game or sticking at the same feel? How is that dynamic working?

CHARLEY HULL: I think it’s getting better and better and better definitely. I don’t actually take too much notice of it myself, but yeah, I think it’s definitely getting better. Obviously because it’s shown, more media is coming towards it and once you get more media and show it more on TV it’s going to generate more money for sponsors to want to, like, sponsor it. I think it’s good.

Q. In terms of the growth of the women’s game, is visibility the key? Is that what you think is the key to drive people to follow it and participate?

CHARLEY HULL: Yeah, 100 per cent. I think especially for young girls, as well, because they obviously think it’s an old man’s sport and it’s boring, and it’s really not. I feel like this new breed of players that’s all coming through, it’s all helping the growth of the game.

Q. And do you enjoy that, allowing people to get to know you more and showing your personality?

CHARLEY HULL: Yeah, definitely. I feel like I’m quite a bubbly personality. Say what I think. Just go out there and have fun and I feel like more people should be like that. It’s nice to see that, you know, like interact with the crowds and stuff, and that’s what I’ve been doing a bit more lately and I think it’s fun — well, when we do have crowds, because of COVID, but it’s coming back to normal.

THE MODERATOR: Thank you very much for your time and very best of luck.

Interview Transcript by ASAP Sports

Categories
Ladies Tours Live

Georgia Hall: “To be crowned champion again would be amazing and that’s definitely one of my goals.”

Georgia Hall is feeling confident about her golf game in Carnoustie, Scotland at the 2021 AIG Women's Open

AIG WOMEN’S OPEN

August 18, 2021

Georgia Hall

Carnoustie, Angus, Scotland, UK

Press Conference

OLIVIA McMILLAN: We are lucky to be joined by the 2018 champion, Georgia Hall. Thank you so much for joining us, Georgia.

It’s been quite an exciting day here at the AIG Women’s Open with the big announcement that the prize fund for this year increasing to $5.8 million, followed by 6.$8 million next year. From a player’s perspective can you let us know what that means to the players as a group.

GEORGIA HALL: It’s phenomenal and fantastic to hear that and that it’s actually happening. Week-in, week-out, we want to play for big prize funds and it just recognises what an amazing event this is. To me, it’s the biggest event in women’s golf, and it’s great news for all our players.

Q. Saw you on the course this afternoon getting a feel for Carnoustie. What are you expecting from the course this week? Obviously it has quite a reputation?

GEORGIA HALL: Yeah, I mean, I played 18 holes today and it was a lot different golf course than yesterday, just based on the wind. I think every day is going to be different, and that’s what it should be, you know, British Open. I’m really excited to play. I haven’t played an event here in ten years, and yeah, I look forward to teeing it up tomorrow.

Q. And obviously you have the experience of winning The Open Championship. What would it mean to go and do that again at Carnoustie?

GEORGIA HALL: Yeah, it’s incredibly special to me, winning three years ago, and yeah, to win it again would be incredible, and it’s still my favorite event of the year. Yeah, I mean, I don’t really think about that. I’ll think about tomorrow first.

But obviously to be crowned champion again would be amazing and that’s definitely one of my goals.

Q. There’s such a strong contingent, yourself and Charley from England, flying the flag for England, as well. Are you expecting a successful week for you?

GEORGIA HALL: Yeah, I mean, I’m playing well coming into this week. I’ve had a run of a lot of golf but also good results. Also a lot of players especially from Britain, England, playing well and playing in this event and so hopefully we’ll have the home proud behind us.

Q. Just going back to 2018, do you remember kind of or if at all, do you know if the win changed you in any way, either as a player or in terms of your preparation or on the course?

GEORGIA HALL: I don’t think it changed me as a person. As a golfer, obviously having an Major Champion on your name is very special and I will have that the rest of my career. I think it changed that way. I got noticed more. Yeah, there’s more expectation, and winning in my home country, I got more known around England.

Q. Did it in any way increase pressure or the fact that more people are recognising you day-in and day-out?

GEORGIA HALL: I don’t like to put too much expectation on myself but it increased expectations from other people. But of course when you win a major, especially it’s my rookie year, more people would take a look at how I’m doing.

But I love the pressure that comes with winning, and after that, I felt very comfortable just going out there playing golf.

Q. Picking up on what you said at the top in terms of being asked about the increased prize fund with the Women’s Open, in terms of closing the gap to the men, do you think that the game, the women’s tour, is closing that gap slowly?

GEORGIA HALL: Yeah, it definitely is. You know, especially what the R&A and AIG have done for this event is just raising the bar for other events and companies to do the same and that’s what’s needed in women’s golf.

From a personal point of view, I’m really happy and proud to be associated with the R&A and AIG.

Q. Do you ever see a situation in your playing year where the gap is so close that the men’s and women’s tours sit side-by-side?

GEORGIA HALL: I really hope. So that would be incredible if that happened. But it all has to go in steps and this is a great step forward to making that happen.

OLIVIA McMILLAN: Georgia, I know that you’re really passionate about growing the game and you’ve spent a lot of time as the R&A Girls’ Golf Ambassador, and on Monday, you went out with a whole heap of excited children who won a ticket to the AIG Women’s Open. Can you comment about Monday’s experience and why junior golf is so important to you?

GEORGIA HALL: Yeah, it’s so important to of course growing the game and get more youngsters into golf in general. I think that’s incredibly important for the game. It’s really inspiring to me seeing so many youngsters turn up, and for me to give a tip that they can go home and start practising with, but it’s nice to be able to help inspire them.

Q. What’s your take an Nelly Korda, her achievement over the past few months and how good is it to have a big star, potentially maybe become a dominant force in the game? Is that a good thing for the game to help promote it?

GEORGIA HALL: Yeah, 100 per cent. The achievements she’s done this year is extraordinary. She’s quite a good friend of mine and it’s been really great to see her do so well, especially win a Gold Medal a couple weeks ago. It was really inspiring. I think she’s such a role model for the youngsters out there, very athletic and just a really down-to-earth, nice person.

So yeah, I think she’s done great.

Q. How long have you been mates?

GEORGIA HALL: I would say three years, kind of since I’ve been on Tour. We’ve shared together a few times obviously before COVID, so I got to know her pretty well.

OLIVIA McMILLAN: Georgia, thank you for being so generous with your time. We wish you the best of luck this week at the AIG Women’s Open.

Interview Transcript by ASAP Sports