The much-anticipated Solheim Cup showdown begins today. After two consecutive Solheim Cup losses, Team US is looking to avoid a three-peat. While the excitement is palpable, LPGA star Nelly Korda is missing someone really close.

On the other hand, Team Europe’s Madelene Sagstrom is all charged up. In a Solheim Cup pre-tournament interview at Andalucia, Spain on Thursday, she shared her excitement and anticipation. In contrast, her rival Nelly, by her own admission, is a bit of a “sad face” ahead of the patriotic showdown.

Nelly’s “Sad face” and Sagstrom’s “Fun” ahead of the patriotic showdown

In a pre-tournament interview in Andalucia, Spain on Thursday when asked Nelly Korda how she feels to be playing here alone this time without her sister on her side, Nelly mentioned, “Yeah, I’m definitely sad to not have Jess here. First Solheim Cup without her. It’s definitely been a little different.” Jessica Korda, Nelly’s elder sister recently announced her pregnancy due to which she is on a hiatus.

She further added, “But I think the bigger picture, whenever I get to represent my country it’s been so much fun, and I get to experience new players and bond with other players too, which is a lot of fun. But, yeah, sad face not having Jess here.”

On the other side, Nelly’s competitor Madelene Sagstrom bubbles with anticipation. When asked about how she is excited about her family and friends coming to support her during the game and does it boosts her confidence, she stated, “Yeah, I have my mom and dad, my brother. He’s got friends. I have my fiancé, Jack’s whole family.

She further added, “Our little niece walked all nine holes with us on the fairway. I think she’s going to sleep really good tonight. So she’s got a little Swedish flag on there. So it’s fun. It’s just fun.” With her family’s support during the highly anticipated showdown, Sagstrom exudes both happiness and confidence.

The most awaited patriotic showdown is at last here

The Solheim Cup has witnessed 10 US victories in 17 editions to date. Europe has won 7 times, holding the title for the past two editions in 2019 and 2021. However, Team USA is determined to reclaim the crown this time around. It won’t be easy in alien conditions though.

Read More: ‘Soon to Be’ Aunt Nelly Korda Has a 5-Word Mantra for an Absolute Solheim Cup Triumph

Will Team Europe secure a third straight win, or will Team US recapture the title and avenge itself for back-to-back humiliations? Only time will tell. Which team are you supporting this Solheim Cup? Let us know in the comments section below!

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