Nelly Korda Suffers Rare Defeat, Europe Secures Slim Solheim Cup Lead

World number one Nelly Korda suffered her first Solheim Cup foursomes defeat on Saturday as Team Europe seized a precious 7-5 lead over the United States. Tied at 4-4 heading into the session, the US duo of Korda and Allisen Corpuz faced off against Sweden's Maja Stark and Linn Grant.

Stark and Grant capitalized on a shaky start from the American favorites, building a commanding four-hole lead by the turn. Despite a spirited back-nine recovery from the United States, the European pair held firm to secure a 3&2 victory on the 16th hole.

'It's the best feeling ever,' said Stark after the match. 'We're kind of hard to beat when we don't make any bogeys.'

Additional victories from Leona Maguire and Esther Henseleit, alongside rookies Mimi Rhodes and Nastasia Nadaud, solidified Europe's advantage. Meanwhile, Alison Lee and Lauren Coughlin provided a crucial response for the visitors by defeating Charley Hull and Lottie Woad 6&5.

The United States needs 14 points to retain the trophy as current holders, while Europe requires a minimum of 14.5 points to reclaim it during Sunday's concluding singles matches.