Angela Stanford Named U.S. Captain for 2026 Solheim Cup
Angela Stanford, a seven-time LPGA Tour winner, has been appointed as the U.S. captain for the 2026 Solheim Cup, which will take place in the Netherlands. The LPGA announced the decision on Thursday, recognizing Stanford’s extensive experience in the prestigious biennial team event. Stanford, who has competed in six Solheim Cups and served as an assistant captain three times, including most recently in 2024 under Stacy Lewis, is well-versed in the competition’s unique challenges.
At 47, Stanford expressed her excitement and pride in taking on the role, stating that representing her country in the Solheim Cup is the pinnacle of her career. “I’ve always believed that I represent more than myself on the LPGA Tour, and there is no greater honor than representing your country,” she said. “I’m looking forward to leading our players to the Netherlands in 2026.”
Stanford’s Solheim Cup history is rich, having been part of the U.S. team that won the prestigious trophy on foreign soil in 2015. That year, she sealed the victory with a crucial 2&1 win over Suzann Pettersen, securing the final point for the U.S. team.
After a remarkable 23-year career on the LPGA Tour, Stanford retired in 2024, capping her career with a major victory at the 2018 Amundi Evian Championship. Her leadership and dedication have made a lasting impact on the LPGA Tour, and the LPGA’s interim commissioner, Liz Moore, praised Stanford’s leadership qualities both on and off the course. “Angela has always been a spark on and off the course, a true leader and a dedicated partner to her teammates,” Moore said. “It’s now her time to take the helm of the U.S. Team, and I have no doubt that she will lead her squad to a successful week in the Netherlands.”
The U.S. team claimed victory in the 2024 Solheim Cup in Gainesville, Virginia, marking their first win since 2017. As the 2026 Solheim Cup approaches, the U.S. team will look to build on that momentum under Stanford’s leadership.
The 2026 Solheim Cup will be held from September 11-13 at Bernardus Golf in the Netherlands, where three-time major winner Anna Nordqvist will captain the European team. The event promises to be a thrilling contest as both teams battle for supremacy on the global stage.
