WATCH: Albane Valenzuela’s wholesome reaction to becoming the first Swiss player to represent Europe at Solheim Cup
Albane Valenzuela became the first-ever Swiss player selected to play for Team Europe at the Solheim Cup. On August 26, captain Suzann Pettersen selected Valenzuela as one of her captain's picks. Pettersen also selected Georgia Hall, Anna Nordqvist, and Emily Kristine Pedersen.
After being selected for the Solheim Cup, Valenzuela who was clearly delighted, hugged Pettersen, according to a video shared on the Solheim Cup European Team’s official X (formerly Twitter) page.
Another post shared by the Solheim Cup European Team's X page announced the Swiss' selection. The caption read:
“Albane Valenzuela will become the first player from Switzerland to represent Europe at the Solheim Cup."
Besides the four captain’s picks in the twelve-member squad, the Solheim Cup European team led by Suzann Pettersen will also have Charley Hull, Esther Henseleit, Celine Boutier, Maja Stark, Linn Grant, Leona Maguire, Carlota Ciganda, and Madelene Sagstrom.
Albane Valenzuela opens up on Team Europe selection for Solheim Cup
After being selected as one of the captain's picks, Albane Valenzuela couldn't contain her happiness. In an interview after the announcement, she said it had been her "dream" to play in the Solheim Cup.
“I’m absolutely speechless, I can’t believe I’m going to play! I got to play the Junior Solheim Cup a very long time ago and ever since then it has always been a dream to make it onto the big team. I’m incredibly proud and honored and am very excited to represent Europe,” Valenzuela said (via Sky Sports).
She added the moment was very emotional for her:
“It’s going to be an incredible experience. I was definitely surprised when Suzann (Pettersen) told me. It was a very emotional moment and I couldn’t be happier.”
Meanwhile, Suzann Pettersen has revealed the reason for her picking Valenzuela. Pettersen said the latter's form and ball-striking abilities had commended her for the team.
“It’s fantastic to bring Albane into the team. She has played some solid golf over the last two years and especially this year has proven she’s worthy of a spot on this team. She is a great ball striker,” Pettersen said.
The 2024 Solheim Cup will take place from September 13 to 15 in Virginia. Last year, both the European Team and the USA Team had a draw with 14 points and Europe retained the cup as past champions.