Title: Lexi Thompson's Stellar Back-Nine Pushes Team USA to Solheim Cup Victory
Nothing was going to stop Team USA from defending their Solheim Cup title, not even a rough start for their number 2 player, Lexi Thompson. Despite beginning the final round with a sluggish performance and a four-stroke deficit, Thompson turned it around on the back-nine, scoring an incredible seven birdies and a pair of eagles at holes 11 and 15 to ensure a half-point for her team.
Following a rousing speech by captain Juli Inkster, who became only the second skipper in history to win the Solheim Cup more than once, Thompson drew on her teammates' support and inner strength to pull off an incredible comeback.
"That was the strangest round of golf I've ever played," said Thompson, who was struggling on the front nine. "I guess I was asleep at the wheel during the first nine. But on the back, the light just went out."
Encouraged by Inkster's words and rejuvenated by her fellow players' belief in her abilities, Thompson stepped up her game and showed the world why she's ranked second in the world.
"She was there for me, supporting me and just telling me to keep my head up. I'm the best, I can do it," said Thompson. "I can come back and make six birdies, seven birdies in a row."
Despite the European team's valiant effort to claw back points, the Americans maintained their composure and drive, with Lizette Salas converting the deciding putt to secure Team USA's victory. Although the Europeans managed to square the Sunday singles matches, their 1-7 loss in the fourball and foursomes matches on the previous days left an insurmountable deficit.
Europa's captain, Annika Sorenstam, was proud of her team, although she acknowledged that they had been outplayed over the course of the three days.
"We were just beaten. There's no denying it," said Sorenstam. "I'm proud of their effort. To come back from such a deficit and play so well is nothing short of amazing."
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Additional Insights
Lexi Thompson's impressive performance during the back-nine in the 2024 Solheim Cup showcases her resilience and ability to rise to the occasion under pressure. The three-day tournament, which features a mix of singles, four-ball, and foursomes matches, challenges each player to adjust their strategy based on their teammates' strengths and weaknesses. With Team USA's victory, the Americans extended their overall record to 11 wins, 1 lost, and 1 tie since the tournament's inception in 1990.
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