On the heels of a dramatic victory this fall, Catriona Matthew is returning as captain of the European Solheim Cup team for the 2021 matches.
The Ladies European Tour made the announcement of Matthew's continued appointment on Nov. 14 at Gleneagles in Scotland, where the Europeans secured a dramatic 14.5-13.5 win over the Americans captained by Juli Inkster.
The 2021 matches will be played at Inverness Club in Toledo, Ohio, a city which has historically supported the LPGA Tour with an annual event. The matches will unfold from Saturday, Sept. 4 to Labor Day Monday, Sept. 6.
“Winning the Solheim Cup in Scotland was a dream come true, but backing that up with a win in America would be even better," said Matthew, who is looking to become the first European Solheim Cup captain with multiple wins.
“It’s always harder to win on US soil, but I’m honored to be tasked with the mission. I was lucky enough to be part of the first European team to win on U.S. soil at Colorado Golf Club in 2013 and so know what’s possible.
Inkster, who was seeking a three-peat as American captain, will not return to lead the United States in 2021 on home soil.
Matthew, who won the 2009 Women's British Open, is excited to take on the challenge, no matter the opposition.
“The American team played extremely well at Gleneagles, but what we accomplished this year and what it meant to people all around the world, will serve as further motivation," she said. "I’m excited to get down to business, build the next team and see what Europe is capable of at Inverness Club. It’s a very Scottish name, so I’m hoping that’s a good omen!"
Matthew played in the Solheim Cup nine times a player, debuting in 1998. She was on the winning side three times as a player, including 2003, 2011 and 2013.
The Scot's most brilliant move was perhaps picking Norway's Suzann Pettersen to compete as a wild-card pick. Ultimately, Pettersen secured the winning point with a career-ending eight-footer to beat Marina Alex in the final match on the course.
“I’m thrilled that Catriona is returning as captain," Pettersen said. "She’s a class act and obviously inspires all the players and team members around her. She’s not only a Solheim Cup legend, but she’s also a great leader, friend and mother. She had the faith in me to choose me as a wildcard pick, for which I will forever be grateful and she deserves all the credit.”
The United States leads 10-6 in the all-time series, which began in 1990.
