Our International 20×20 Women in Sport Award this week goes to Norwegian golfer Suzann Pettersen who sunk the winning putt for Europe to triumph over USA in the biannual Solheim Cup between the two teams. There was so much to admire in the match which was truly inspirational for young and not so young women golfers everywhere. The two captains Catriona Matthew and Julie Inkster, both fine players over the years , had extended their involvement with their beloved sport through their team management roles. Both teams introduced new young players as first time Solheim Cup picks, the three day event was a huge advertisement for women’s golf and there was enough drama to ensure the event was watched by huge audiences across Europe and the United States, and then there was Suzann Pettersen.
The Norwegian has had a wonderful career in golf Winning 27 tournaments worldwide including two majors and reaching number two in the world on two occasions. Two years ago at the age of 36, she took time out to have a baby and then 20 months later she decided to play golf again. She did not qualify for the team but captain Catriona Matthews selected her as a wild card pick and what a great decision. After 27 games in the match the Americans only needed to halve the last game which was all square going to the last. Both Petersen and her opponent Marina Alex had birdie putts on the last green. Alex missed and with the whole outcome of the match hinging on Pettersen’s putt, up she stepped to hole an 8 footer for birdie and victory. Cue wild European celebrations. Take a bow Suzann!