The Solheim Cup has finally returned to US soil after Stacy Lewis’ side secured a narrow victory over Suzann Pettersen’s European team at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club in Virginia.
Lilia Vu holed the winning putt on the 18th after producing a pinpoint approach shot to set up birdie and halve her match against Albane Valenzuela.
Europe threatened to produce a remarkable comeback, but the charge fizzled out late Sunday afternoon. After the loss, Suzann Pettersen was coy about her future as Solheim Cup captain.
Golf Channel pundit Ryan Lavner has now cast his view on the event just to the west of the United States’ capital.
Ryan Lavner lauds Megan Khang’s Solheim Cup influence
Speaking on the latest Golf Channel podcast, Lavner discussed the standout performers for Lewis’ side.
“I would bring up this new-look US team. They only had a couple of different returners from 2023, but it seems like they have turned the page in terms of who is on that roster,” Lavner explained.
“Nelly Korda is the undisputed alpha of that squad, but Rose Zhang went 4-0 and didn’t even see the 17th and 18th holes. It’s the first time a player has ever done that on the US side.
“She was just completely dominant and redeemed herself after what was a pretty shaky Solheim Cup debut in 2023. Lauren Coughlin went 3-0-1. I think she is probably the second best player in the world behind Nelly Korda this year.”
Lavner went on to highlight Megan Khang’s influence and suggested the 26-year-old plays a similar role to Justin Thomas in US Ryder Cup teams.
“And Megan Khang. She is like that Justin Thomas figure to me, like we have seen on the US men’s side,” Lavner added. “The emotional leader, and then she backs it up with substance. Going 3-0. Undefeated for the second straight Solheim Cup.”
Megan Khang proves Solheim Cup point after 2024 performance
Khang headed into the week as one of the USA’s most experienced players, having won 5.5 points from ten matches previously.
Khang wasn’t utilised in the foursomes sessions, with Lewis pairing her up with Korda for the fourballs, which proved an inspired decision. Khang and Korda triumphed over Georgia Hall and Leona Maguire on Friday afternoon, winning 6&4.
Khang was happy to miss out on the foursomes after being told by Lewis before the event got underway in Virginia.
The American continued her electric form into the singles, beating Emily Pedersen 6&5. Khang never trailed or lost a hole.
Now, after being compared to Thomas, it’s clear Khang will be an integral part of US Solheim Cup teams moving forward.
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