Angela Stanford to Captain 2026 U.S. Solheim Cup Team

Seoul, Korea — Angela Stanford, a seasoned veteran and seven-time LPGA Tour winner, has been appointed the captain of the 2026 U.S. Solheim Cup Team. After serving three stints as an assistant captain, Stanford is set to lead the top 12 American female golfers at Bernardus Golf in the Netherlands from September 11-13, 2026.

Stanford expressed her excitement about the appointment, recognizing it as a career pinnacle. "I’m extremely grateful to be named the next American captain for the Solheim Cup and join a list of my heroes in the game," she said. "There is no greater honor than representing your country, and I look forward to leading our players to the Netherlands in 2026."

Interim LPGA Commissioner Liz Moore praised Stanford's appointment, citing her vibrant presence both on and off the course. "Angela Stanford will certainly be a wonderful captain for the U.S. Team at the 2026 Solheim Cup," Moore commented. "She’s always been a spark and a true leader. It’s now her time to take the helm of the U.S. Team, and I have no doubt that she will lead her squad to a successful week in the Netherlands."

Stanford retired from professional play in 2024 following a distinguished 23-year career on the LPGA Tour. Her career highlights include her first major title at the 2018 Amundi Evian Championship and victories at the 2023 and 2024 Senior LPGA Championships. Stanford's resilience and skill were further showcased as she competed in 98 consecutive major championships from 2002 to 2024, a feat second only to Jack Nicklaus in professional golf history.

A six-time participant in the Solheim Cup, Stanford’s experience includes earning the winning point in the 2015 event with her victory over Suzann Pettersen. She later transitioned into a mentorship role, serving as an assistant captain in 2021 under Captain Pat Hurst and again in 2023 and 2024 under Captain Stacy Lewis.

Beyond the green, Stanford contributes to her community through the Angela Stanford Foundation, which provides scholarships to Texas children affected by breast cancer—a cause close to her heart following her mother Nan’s prolonged battle with the disease.

As the countdown to the 2026 Solheim Cup begins, the golf world eagerly anticipates Stanford’s leadership and strategic prowess in guiding the U.S. team in this prestigious international competition.