Team USA has sanctioned and suspended seven(7) players following their Solheim Cup win against Team Europe due to discriminatory actions.
Team USA has sanctioned and suspended seven(7) players following their Solheim Cup win against Team Europe due to discriminatory actions.
### “7 Contenders Set to Battle for the Next US Solheim Cup Captaincy: Who Will Steer Team USA in 2026?”
The 2024 Solheim Cup ended with Team USA celebrating a hard-fought 15.5-12.5 victory over Team Europe at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Club in Virginia, marking a triumphant conclusion to Stacy Lewis’ captaincy. Her leadership was instrumental in ending a seven-year win drought against Europe, and her meticulous yet engaging approach transformed the team’s dynamics and culture. However, with the cup set to head to the Netherlands in 2026, the big question now is: Who will take the reins as the next captain for Team USA?
**Here’s a closer look at the top contenders—and a few wildcards—for the US Solheim Cup captaincy in 2026:**
**Angela Stanford**
As a seasoned veteran with vice-captain roles in the last three Solheim Cups and a notable presence in six matches, Stanford is a leading candidate. Her extensive experience and deep understanding of the team’s inner workings make her a strong choice to guide the US on foreign soil.
**Paula Creamer**
With a storied Solheim Cup history, including 19.5 points from 34 matches, Creamer is a formidable contender. Known for her inspirational performances and a record of participation from 2005 to 2017, Creamer’s recent debut as an assistant suggests her time in a leading role is approaching.
**Brittany Lincicome**
Another vice-captain under Lewis in Virginia, Lincicome shares a legacy similar to Creamer’s, with four Solheim Cup victories as a player. Her experience and familiarity with the team’s strategic needs make her a compelling choice for captaincy.
**Michelle Wie West**
Despite her sole experience as an assistant captain in the 2021 defeat, Wie West brings significant player experience to the table. A five-time participant, her potential as a captain is intriguing and could add a fresh perspective to Team USA’s leadership.
**Morgan Pressel**
By the time the next Solheim Cup rolls around, Pressel will be 38, mirroring Lewis’ age during the 2023 event. With a solid track record of 12.5 points from 22 matches and two previous vice-captain roles, Pressel is a strong candidate poised to step into a captaincy role.
**Lexi Thompson**
Though set to retire from full-time play after the 2024 season, Thompson’s extensive career and recent victory could mark the beginning of her leadership journey. At 29, she has a wealth of experience that could make her an ideal choice for the captaincy in 2026.
**Cristie Kerr**
At 46, Kerr brings a wealth of experience from competing in nine Solheim Cups and holds the fourth-most points in the event’s history. Her limited recent schedule suggests she might be ready for a leadership role, making her a distinguished candidate for the captaincy.
As the golf world eagerly anticipates the next chapter in the Solheim Cup saga, the selection of the next captain will be crucial in determining whether Team USA can continue their winning ways on European soil. Stay tuned as the contenders for this prestigious role are closely watched and debated in the lead-up to the 2026 tournament.
