Solheim Cup: How Anna Nordqvist’s youthful Europeans answered critics in win over US

Europe’s skipper faced intense scrutiny throughout her captaincy, especially over her stubborn faith in Woad’s partnership with fellow Englishwoman Charley Hull.

But she was ultimately vindicated, especially with her wildcard selections, which also included relative veteran Leona Maguire.

Between them they yielded eight and a half points, compared with five contributed by America’s three captain’s picks. Nordqvist’s singles line-up also leant heavily on a willingness to trust in youth.

Of the youngsters tasting Solheim singles action for the first time only Rhodes failed to win and it took a brilliant performance from world number one Nelly Korda to beat her on the final day.

And the beaten Englishwoman had already contributed significantly alongside Nadaud with Friday fourball and Saturday foursomes wins that helped ensure 8-8 parity after the first two days.

In the singles Rhodes was sent out fourth, but it was positions six, seven and eight – Nadaud, Lopez Ramirez and Woad – that held so much significance to the final outcome.

All three delivered vital wins. “What people don’t understand is they’re so good when they come out on tour these days,” Nordqvist said. “They just play fearless and they have so much personality.

“All of the four I had, I never felt like they were rookies. And the first day when I send out Nastasia and Mimi a lot of people questioned why would you send out two rookies, but I said why not. And they delivered.

“They delivered again on Saturday morning. And Sunday too. Mimi took Nelly down to 15. She’s the number one player in the world, and she pushed her.

“Rookie Lottie making the winning putt. It’s been really fun to have them and they bring out a fresh perspective.

“And I feel really old and I’m glad I’m retiring now because these girls are just so good.”