Europe will face a “hostile” home crowd “absolutely desperate” for the United States to win back the Solheim Cup in Virginia this week, says former captain Mickey Walker.
Last year’s 14-14 draw in Spain, the first in the contest’s 34-year history, meant Europe retained the trophy after victories in 2019 in Scotland and 2021 in Ohio.
No side has held the trophy for a fourth successive time and Europe have won just twice in nine previous events in the US.
“The Americans will feel it is essential to win and it’s going to be difficult for Europe because it can get quite hostile,” Walker, who led Europe to their first triumph in 1992.
“The American crowds will be out there to win it. It will be very pro-American and that will be really tough.
“Those that have played before will know what to expect and they will be as prepared as they can be, but it’s a lonely place when you’re out there playing and 90% of the support is American.”