Nastasia “Nas” Nadaud has absolutely rocked it, securing a Captain's Pick for the 2026 Solheim Cup with an incredible series of performances. The French rookie sensation is officially on board the European team, a bold decision by Captain Anna Nordqvist, who is relying entirely on instinct and current form.
Just a few weeks ago, Nadaud was not a top candidate for team consideration, but then Nordqvist spoke with her in Scotland, and the deal was practically sealed. She is one of three rookies among Nordqvist's four Captain's Picks, flanked by Julia López Ramirez and Mimi Rhodes. Only Leona Maguire brings experience to the team as a seasoned player.
Rookie Alert in Team Europe
The 2026 Solheim Cup is set to take place from September 11-13 at Bernardus Golf in the Netherlands, and with Nadaud, the Europeans have a true powerhouse on the scene. The 21-year-old earned her LPGA card via Q-School, after already triumphing on the LET and finishing third in the LET Order of Merit last season (2025). Her run on the LPGA has been exceptionally strong since mid-May 2026: four top-25 finishes and not a single cut missed.
The Path to Elite Status
Her T-22 at the 2026 Evian Championship virtually served her the nomination on a silver platter. She is currently ranked 88th in the world rankings, is seventh on the LPGA in Strokes Gained Off the Tee, and twentieth in birdie percentage – the best European on Tour behind Lottie Woad. What's extraordinary about Nas? She is one of only three players in the European squad who did not take the classic route through American college golf, alongside talents like Charley Hull and Esther Henseleit. A true self-made story that will definitely boost the team's spirit.
