Solheim Cup 1992: Europe’s Historic Upset Over US

Solheim Cup witnessed one of the greatest upsets in 20th-century sports in Scotland in 1992, though it barely made headlines. Just two years earlier, the United States had decisively defeated Europe 11½-4½ in the inaugural Solheim Cup held in Florida and were expected to replicate that success at Dalmahoy near Edinburgh. However, despite facing adverse weather, Europe pulled off a stunning reversal winning 11½-6½.

Europe captain Mickey Walker highlighted how the unexpected victory transformed the Solheim Cup into a true competition. The American team which included six future Hall of Famers, appeared invincible with 21 major titles between them. But they faced a setback when captain Kathy Whitworth had to leave due to a family emergency.

Additionally, comments from U.S. golfer Beth Daniel suggesting that only Laura Davies and Liselotte Neumann were worth noting on the European side added extra motivation for Europe. Laura Davies, then one of the top players, delivered an outstanding performance winning all three of her matches and leading her team to victory.

The challenging Scottish weather which the Americans found unfavorable also played a role in Europe’s success. The Solheim Cup began with a proposal from the Women’s Professional Golfers’ Association (WPGA), later known as the Ladies European Tour (LET) to create a women’s Ryder Cup.

Karsten Solheim and his wife Louise, major supporters of women’s golf, helped secure funding and support for the event. The first Solheim Cup in 1990 was a one-sided affair but the competition’s growing prestige and the subsequent European victory in 1992 helped elevate its profile.

As the Solheim Cup heads into its 19th edition, with up to 100,000 spectators expected in Virginia, the contest now commands significant media attention and promises to be a high-profile event, unlike the subdued reaction in 1992.