In Sunningdale, England, Mimi Rhodes orchestrated an impressive comeback from a 3-down situation in the Curtis Cup against the United States, sinking an 18-foot par putt that clinched the half-point necessary for Great Britain and Ireland to secure victory. This win marked the first time in eight years that GB&I claimed the cup.
The final score of the event at Sunningdale ended with GB&I triumphing 10 1/2-9 1/2 against the Americans, with Catriona Matthew becoming the first winning captain of both the Curtis Cup for amateurs and the Solheim Cup for professionals. Throughout the tournament, the GB&I team displayed determination and perseverance.
Though the Americans started strong, leading early in five of the six initial matches and securing their first point with a victory by 15-year-old Asterisk Talley over Lottie Woad, the top player in women’s amateur rankings, GB&I showcased resilience. Mimi Rhodes, in particular, delivered an exceptional performance.
Rhodes, who was trailing by 3 after seven holes, mounted an inspiring comeback to take a 1-up lead with a birdie on the 14th hole. In a tense battle of matches, Lorna McClymont also secured a decisive point. Ultimately, Rhodes’ clutch 18-foot putt on the 17th hole ensured the half-point required for GB&I.
Following Rhodes’ crucial putt, McClymont sealed the victory by holing a par putt on the 16th hole for a 3-and-2 win. This win marked a significant achievement for GB&I, last winning the Curtis Cup in 2016 in Ireland. The Americans maintain an overall lead of 33-9-3 in the series, which dates back to 1932.