Suzann Pettersen called her players “legends” as Europe lifted the Solheim Cup for a third consecutive occasion at Finca Cortesin in Spain.

In the singles, Caroline Hedwall and Carlota Ciganda starred as Europe retained the trophy with a 14-14 tie over the United States.

As European captain Pettersen put it, we faced a huge challenge.

I was pretty sure we were half a point short at one point. We have created history again.”

The European team has won the trophy three times in a row (2019, 2021, 2023), while the United States has achieved it twice (1994, 1996, 1998 and 2005, 2007, 2009).

After Sunday’s singles matches, the two teams were tied at 8-8, with Europe needing 14 points and the US needing 1412.

Despite a strong start, the momentum of the match shifted towards the Americans, who held a 13-11 advantage until Sweden’s Hedwall rallied to reignite hopes for Europe.

In her match against Ally Ewing, world number 121 won five of the last six holes to bring Europe back within 13-12.

In addition to Maja Stark’s 2&1 win, Ciganda’s tie on the 17th green gave Europe three points from the four final matches.

I would like to give Caroline Hedwall some extra credit. I believe she had the crucial point. She set up Carlota nicely for her final two shots,” said Pettersen.

I mean, Stacy [Lewis] and I both knew this was going to come down to the wire. I mean, we were tied going into today, and it usually comes down to one match, one shot, or one putt.

Pettersen spoke with the media ahead of Europe’s Ryder Cup match against the United States in Rome next weekend.