2023 Solheim Cup - The teams, the rules, the course and more to watch - ESPN

ANDALUSIA, Spain — European team captain Suzann Pettersen had a reputation as a fiery competitor during her playing career, which helped her become one of the most successful and controversial players in Solheim Cup history.

In 2015, Pettersen was at the center of the «gimme-gate» controversy after American Alison Lee missed a birdie putt and picked up her ball on the 17th hole, stating she had heard the Europeans concede the 18-inch putt. Pettersen said she hadn't, resulting in the U.S. team losing the hole and falling 1 down in the match. The Europeans won the match 2 up and took a 10-6 lead into singles.

Pettersen was heavily criticized for her actions and later apologized. The Americans rallied to win 8½ points during singles, resulting in a 14½-13½ victory at Golf Club St. Leon-Rot in Germany. It was the largest comeback in Solheim Cup history.

Four years later, at Gleneagles in Scotland, Pettersen made the winning putt to clinch Europe's 14½-13½ victory. She announced her retirement moments later.

Pettersen seems to be carrying that same emotion and confidence as Europe's captain at this week's Solheim Cup at Finca Cortesin in Andalusia. She has already called her team the most talented Europe has ever assembled.

«I don't think there's anything to hide under a chair that if you look on paper, we have the strongest team that I've ever been a part of, and that's based on great performances over the last few years from all the players,» Pettersen said. «So with good results, there's also expectations, but these girls are so up for it, so we can't wait.»

American captain Stacy Lewis seems more than willing to let the Europeans carry the weight of being the favorites. Europe has won each of the past two Solheim Cups.