(Gainesville) Allisen Corpuz hit a dart and Nelly Korda capitalized, the duo helping the United States stifle a European comeback and extend its lead to 8-4 midway through the day’s competition Saturday at the Solheim Cup.
The Americans opened the day with a 6-2 lead at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club, a record for a single day of Solheim Cup action. They split the first four matches on Saturday as they try to prevent Europe from winning a fourth straight title.
Korda and Corpuz became the first duo in the history of this competition to win four consecutive rounds played under the alternating strokes format, notably thanks to Corpuz’s approach on the -5 of the 14th.e pennant. Corpuz’s shot stayed about three meters from the ground, avoiding the water obstacle to end up six meters from the goal.
PHOTO MATT YORK, ASSOCIATED PRESS
Nelly Korda
In disbelief, Korda put her hands on her head. “I told him that might be one of the three best shots I’ve ever seen in my life,” she said.
The world’s top-ranked golfer then rolled in the eagle putt that gave her team a one-shot lead over Carlota Ciganda and Emily Pedersen. It was the pair’s first eagle in a match that began with Europe two shots ahead after three holes.
With a new equality on the board at 17ethe Americans made a birdie to regain the lead, and they played par on the 18th.e to confirm their victory.
Lexi Thompson also improved her Solheim Cup record to 7-2-1. In what appears to be her final appearance at the event, she teamed with rookie Lauren Coughlin to defeat Maja Stark and Georgia Hall 4 and 3.
PHOTO MATT YORK, ASSOCIATED PRESS
Lexi Thompson
A native of Virginia, where the tournament is being held, Coughlin has won all three of his matches so far.
Charley Hull earned a first win this week for Europe, defeating Ally Ewing and Jennifer Kupcho by one shot alongside Esther Henseleit.
Lilia Vu and Sarah Schmelzel made bogeys on the first five holes, allowing Anna Nordqvist and Céline Boutier to win 4 and 3.
“I love this tournament more than anything,” Nordqvist said. “It’s my ninth, and I’m probably closer to the end than the beginning. I’m trying to enjoy every moment.”