Stacy Lewis Hails Thompson as Solheim Cup Ideal

Stacy Lewis, the American captain praised Lexi Thompson as the ideal Solheim Cup player and expressed her wish for a full team of players like Thompson as the U.S. aims to win their first title since 2017. Thompson, a major figure in women’s golf will make her final appearance in the event after announcing her retirement from full-time golf. Lewis, who played alongside Thompson in previous editions described her as synonymous with the Solheim Cup, highlighting her energy and commitment.

Thompson, who has won 15 professional titles including the 2014 Kraft Nabisco Championship has earned 12½ points in Solheim Cup matches. Despite her impressive record, the U.S. team must overcome Europe’s dominance. Last year’s event ended in a 14-14 draw with Europe retaining the trophy. Lewis emphasized Thompson’s versatility and the void her departure will create, suggesting that Thompson could serve as an assistant captain in the future.

As the tournament begins at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Club, the U.S. team benefits from strong players like world number one Nelly Korda and number two Lilia Vu. Despite the added pressure to end Europe’s streak, Lewis aims to keep the atmosphere light and fun comparing it to preparing for final exams rather than facing a high-pressure competition.

Lewis also proposed a mixed Presidents Cup combining men’s and women’s teams to boost the international team’s competitiveness. The Presidents Cup which pits the U.S. against an international team outside Europe has historically favored the U.S. and Stacy Lewis believes a mixed format could enhance the competition. The next Presidents Cup will take place in Montreal later this month.