On Monday and Tuesday, the U.S. and European Solheim Cup teams will finalize their squads including captain’s picks for this year’s teams. Although their play didn’t earn them an automatic spot on the team, several picks on both sides have made major contributions to lift their team to victory. With this year’s picks finalized in just a few days, here’s a look back at some well performing picks in the history of the Solheim Cup. #FlashbackFriday
Sherri Steinhauer
A three time member of Team U.S.A., Sherri Steinhauer had to rely on a captain’s pick to make the team in 1998 after being a member in 1994. Steinhauer made her selection worthwhile, going 3-1-0 in the year’s matches. She earned her way onto the team for the third and final time in 2000. Steinhauer went 6-3-4 in her three appearances, earning eight points for Team U.S.A.
Suzann Pettersen
With a record of 4-1-0 in 2003, it’s hard to believe Suzann Pettersen was a captain’s pick to make the European Team. It was her second appearance after earning a spot on the team in 2002. Pettersen was one again a pick in 2005, going 2-0-2 that year. Pettersen has since earned her way onto Team Europe in the last four playings of the event. She has gone 14-9-6 in her seven appearances, earning 17 points so far for the European team.
Michelle Wie
A mainstay on Team U.S.A., Michelle Wie was a captain’s pick in her first appearance in 2009. She proved her worth, going 3-0-1 for the week. Wie earned her way onto the American team in 2011 but was once again a pick in 2013, going 2-2-0 for the week. Wie has earned 6 ½ points for Team U.S.A. in her three Solheim Cup appearances.
Caroline Hedwall
A two-time captain’s pick for Team Europe in 2011 and 2013, Caroline Hedwall has been a major addition to the team. Hedwall went 2-1-1 in her first appearance then dominated in 2013, going 5-0-0 for the week, a first in the history of the Solheim Cup.
Charley Hull
Regardless of being a captain’s pick in 2013, Charley Hull was not afraid of taking on and eventually taking down Solheim Cup veteran Paula Creamer. Hull defeated Creamer during the Sunday’s singles matches 5 & 4 then proceeded to ask for the Pink Panther’s autograph afterwards.