Alison Lee returns to Solheim Cup in Virginia, recalling 2015 drama

Alison Lee made her Solheim Cup debut for the USA in 2015 at the age of 20, during a match against Europe in Germany. A pivotal moment occurred on the 17th green when Lee believed her putt had been conceded, leading her to pick up her ball after it missed the hole. This decision was contested by her opponents, resulting in Lee losing the hole and sparking significant controversy. The incident left Lee in tears and ignited anger within the American team, particularly from captain Juli Inkster, who criticized the European team’s actions. The USA ultimately staged a remarkable comeback to win the cup, but the controversy surrounding the non-conceded putt overshadowed their victory. Nine years later, Lee returns to the Solheim Cup, having qualified on merit, but the memory of the 2015 incident still looms large. The opposing captain this year is Suzann Pettersen, who was involved in the original controversy and has remained a prominent figure in the European team. The rivalry between the USA and Europe has intensified, with both teams acknowledging the 'unfinished business' stemming from past events. The Solheim Cup has a history of drama, and the stakes are high as the teams prepare to compete at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Club in Virginia. The competition has seen tight margins and emotional moments, with both teams eager to assert their dominance. As the event unfolds, the potential for further controversy remains, given the charged atmosphere and the history between the players. With Lee and Pettersen facing off again, the narrative of rivalry and redemption is set to play out, making this year’s Solheim Cup a highly anticipated event in the world of women’s golf.