ORLANDO, January 26, 2012 (AFP) - Meg Mallon, an eight-time player for the United States in the Solheim Cup, was named US captain on Thursday for the 2013 edition of the biennial team matches against Europe.
The Americans are 8-4 in Solheim Cup play and have never lost on home soil but Europe are the trophy holders after a victory last September in Ireland entering the next Cup showdown at Colorado Golf Club on August 13-18, 2013.
"It's an absolute honor to be selected," Mallon said. "I look forward to working hard on getting the Cup back in US hands."
Mallon, whose appointment was announced at the PGA Merchandise Show, boasts a 13-9 with 7 halved record in Solheim play for 16.5 points, with a 5-2 with 1 halved mark in singles. She also served as an assistant captain in 2009.
"I've participated in The Solheim Cup on nine occasions and each has been a proud moment for me," Mallon said. "But to represent the United States as team captain definitely caps off my career."
Mallon, 48, has played on six triumphant US Solheim squads. Last year she captained the US Junior Solheim Cup team to victory.
"It was exciting to be a part of the future in Ireland last year," Mallon said. "I didn’t know the players very well going in, but we really bonded well and it turned out to be such a rewarding week. I really think it will influence my style in 2013."
Mallon has won 18 career LPGA titles, including four majors, and claimed more than $9 million in prize money over 24 seasons. She won her first titles in 1991, including the US Women’s Open and LPGA Championship major crowns.