Nordqvist and Stanford set the tone for a defining Solheim Cup year
Two captains, two visions and one compelling contest ahead at Bernardus Golf
Seoul, Korea - Europe’s Anna Nordqvist and the United States’ Angela Stanford have offered a revealing look into their preparations for the 2026 Solheim Cup at Bernardus Golf in the Netherlands, sharing insights into team-building, course strategy and the personal challenges that come with leading their sides.
Nordqvist said designing team outfits, curating her support staff and shaping the identity of her European side had been “one of my favourite parts so far”, while admitting the hardest task has been turning away past players, caddies and helpers who volunteered to join the effort. “I only have so many spots I can fill so having to say no…has been really hard,” she said.
Stanford, meanwhile, revealed she has “enjoyed every second” of captaincy so far, highlighting the lively weekly planning meetings with the LPGA and monthly sessions with her assistant captains. The only real challenge, she joked, has been her own impatience: “I want everything to happen now because I’m so excited.”
Nordqvist believes several emerging European talents could force their way into contention as qualification unfolds. She namechecked Lottie Woad, who “has shown she has what it takes”, as well as Mimi Rhodes and Chiara Tamburlini, who are “up there in the European Qualification criteria”. Her approach, she said, remains simple – “if you play well you will be on the team”.
Stanford is keeping a close eye on Lindy Duncan and Auston Kim, noting both would qualify if the standings closed today. She described Duncan as “resilient…very gritty”, while Kim’s length and ball-striking could be decisive on a firm, fast Bernardus layout. “There are some great things these rookies could bring. I love their mindsets,” she said.
Both captains praised Bernardus Golf as a fitting stage. Nordqvist highlighted its “outstanding facilities” and the importance of accuracy off the tee due to heavy bunkering and heather. Stanford agreed the course will reward straight driving and height into firm greens, but warned that Dutch weather could dramatically alter how it plays.
Nordqvist will avoid over-engineering the set-up, believing tweaks have limited impact at this level: “At the end of the day, the best team will win.” She singled out the par-3 eighth as her favourite hole, demanding both precision and nerve.
Personal reflections were equally revealing. Nordqvist intends to protect time at home after a relentless travel schedule, cherishing gifts from nieces and nephews and planning to prioritise her health in 2026. Stanford hopes for family time, some skiing and is continuing to master her pellet grill. She misses the adrenaline of Thursday mornings on tour but “does not miss the travel”, especially long-haul flights.
Nordqvist knows her own playing schedule will suffer, yet believes competing regularly keeps her connected and approachable. “It really takes a village to make this team and everything happen,” she said. Stanford, retired from full-time play but still competitive on the Legends of the LPGA, expects to seek advice from all six captains she once played under.
With both leaders deep into planning, each quietly shaping culture, strategy and communication, the early contours of a compelling contest are taking shape. Bernardus Golf awaits—and so does one of the most intriguing Solheim Cup chapters yet.