Sept 15, V7N - The U.S. team has taken a commanding 6-2 lead over Europe after the opening day of the Solheim Cup in Virginia, putting them in a strong position to end their seven-year title drought. With exceptional performances from Nelly Korda, Megan Khang, Rose Zhang, and others, the Americans dominated both the morning foursomes and afternoon four-ball sessions.
The U.S. won three of the four morning foursomes, with Korda and her partner Allisen Corpuz securing an early 3&2 victory over Esther Henseleit and Charley Hull. Korda continued her stellar play in the afternoon, partnering with Khang for a 6&4 win over Georgia Hall and Leona Maguire, further extending the U.S. lead.
While Europe managed a key victory with Anna Nordqvist and Madelene Sagstrom defeating Lexi Thompson and Alison Lee, the Americans were unstoppable in the other matches. Zhang and Andrea Lee rallied for a 5&4 win over Linn Grant and Charley Hull, and rookies Lauren Coughlin and Sarah Schmelzel earned a 3&2 victory over Emily Pedersen and Maja Stark.
Despite the deficit, Europe's captain, Suzann Pettersen, remains optimistic, recalling past comebacks. The tournament continues over the weekend at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Club, with Europe facing an uphill battle in their quest for an unprecedented fourth consecutive Solheim Cup title.
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