Solheim Cup captaincy 'dream come true' for Matthew

Scottish veteran Catriona Matthew said it was a "dream come true" being named captain of the Europe team for the 2019 Solheim Cup which will be held on the renowned Gleneagles course in Scotland.

The 48-year-old, who was Europe's standout player in their recent Solheim Cup 16 1/2-11 1/2 whipping by the United States, contributing three of their points, says the biennial event has a unique atmosphere.

"It's a great honour and a dream come true to be the captain at home in Scotland," Matthew told the Ladies European Tour website.

"Since my first appearance in 1998, I have always loved playing in the Solheim Cup.

"It's always such an incredible atmosphere and over the years that I've played, I've enjoyed it more and more."

Matthew, with 22 points, ranks third behind European legends Laura Davies (25) and Annika Sorenstam (24) in all-time totals for the Solheim Cup whilst her 18 match wins is the joint third highest tally -- she is equal with Cristie Kerr (Davies and Sorenstam have 22) -- in the competition's history.

Sorenstam, who captained the side this year, said Matthews is a good choice as she has the respect of her fellow professionals.

"She helped us a lot over the past year as a vice-captain, but then stepped in and won us three points as a player," said Sorenstam, who was Matthew's first Solheim Cup partner in 1998.

"Catriona is very well respected by the players, so she is a natural choice.

"With the next Solheim Cup taking place in Scotland, her home country, it?s the perfect scenario for her to lead the European team."