The Solheim Cup week has a special surprise in store for the US team: former US President Barack Obama, himself a passionate golfer, paid the team a visit in Washington D.C. on Monday evening. During a dinner together, Obama expressed his support for the players and even shared some insights about the Robert Trent Jones Golf Club, where the Solheim Cup is being held this year. The 44th President of the United States has been a member of the club since 2017.
Barack Obama at the Solheim Cup 2024
Barack Obama left a lasting impression on the players, including stars such as Nelly Korda, Lilia Vu and Lexi Thompson. Nelly Korda, currently ranked number one in the world, was particularly impressed: “He knew all our names and congratulated us on our successes. That was really something special.” Megan Khang, also part of the team, emphasized: “It was incredible that he took the time to meet us. It shows how much he cares about golf.”
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This year is a very special Solheim Cup for the US team. After defeats in 2019 and 2021 and a draw in 2023, in which the Europeans retained the trophy, the team’s motivation to settle scores is greater than ever. Obama seems to have given the team exactly the motivation they need to stand up to the Europeans this year. Alison Lee, whose nine years between Solheim Cup appearances is the longest break in US team history, said Obama’s visit showed the power of golf, which she believes no other sport can offer. “It just shows how much golf brings people together,” Lee said ahead of her second appearance at the Solheim Cup. “Meeting him in person after only seeing him on TV before – as our former president – and seeing him connect with us was incredible. That’s something that only golf can make possible.” Whether Obama’s visit and his motivational words will lead the US team to victory remains to be seen.