Angela Stanford, renowned for her accomplishments in professional golf, has been appointed as the captain of the U.S. team for the 2026 Solheim Cup. Stanford, who retired from full-time competitive golf after the 2024 season, brings a wealth of experience and passion to this prestigious role. Having won seven LPGA Tour victories, including a major title at the 2018 Evian Championship, Stanford's illustrious career also saw her compete in 98 consecutive major championships from 2002 to 2024, trailing only Jack Nicklaus in professional golf history.
The 2026 Solheim Cup will be held at Bernardus Golf in Cromvoirt, Netherlands, where Stanford will lead the U.S. team against Europe. The U.S. team holds an impressive 11-7-1 record since the inception of the Solheim Cup in 1990. Stanford, aged 47, has a deep connection with the event, having participated as a player six times and served as vice captain in the past three matches.
"Angela has always been a spark on and off the course, a true leader and a dedicated partner to her teammates," said Liz Moore.
Stanford's enthusiasm for representing her country is evident. Her love for being an American and the opportunities it has afforded her as a professional golfer are sentiments she holds dear.
"I think being American, living in this country, has given me opportunities that I don't know where you can have anywhere else in the world," Stanford told ESPN. "I've gotten to live this dream to be a professional golfer, and now I get to represent the red, white and blue again."
Stanford's upcoming role as captain in the Netherlands presents a unique challenge she eagerly anticipates.
"You don't win much over there," Stanford said. "I've always wanted to be a captain overseas because of the challenge that it presents. I kind of love the 'it's us against the world' feeling, and so I'm looking forward to it."
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