Alison Lee returned to competitive golf after maternity leave and quickly made headlines in the 2026 LPGA Tour season. Her journey was not only remarkable due to personal achievements but also for how she impacted the U.S. Solheim Cup team.
Having given birth to her son in April 2025, Lee initially took maternity leave and spent time in the broadcast booth. At 31 years old, she showcased her talent during the Solheim Cup competition in the Netherlands.
Lee participated in three of the first four sessions of the biennial event, securing victories in her two foursome matches and one fourball match over the first two days. She was the second American to tee off during Sunday’s singles session and initially struggled. However, she demonstrated resilience and determination.
“Things are not always as they appear,” Lee said, after overcoming a challenging situation.
Pitted against Esther Henseleit from Europe at Bernardus Golf, Lee found herself 4-down after hole 11. In the history of the Solheim Cup, no player had ever overcome such a significant deficit in a singles match. Yet, Lee found a new drive and made history.
Henseleit played the final seven holes at 2-over par. Lee responded by executing strongly, playing those same holes at 4-under. She tied the match to secure a crucial half point for the U.S. but went even further to earn a full point, thanks to her birdies on two of the last three holes.
Lee’s achievement was a first since Juli Inkster automatically qualified for the U.S. Solheim Cup team post-maternity leave in 2011. Her comeback was particularly impressive considering she started competing on the LPGA Tour again only in mid-April. She utilized her limited available timeframe to earn top placements, including a T-5 finish at the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship.
Despite the competitiveness of the tournament, Lee’s performance was a highlight on a day that ultimately saw Team Europe claim victory through Lottie Woad’s win over Auston Kim.
Lee’s legacy adds to the history of strong female competitors at the Solheim Cup. Her previous participation in the 2024 Solheim Cup preceded her pregnancy revelation, known only to certain team members. Back then, her performance was pivotal for a 15.5-12.5 U.S. win over Europe.
Lee follows the footsteps of Suzann Pettersen, who played for Team Europe in 2019. Pettersen famously won the cup for Europe and retired immediately after.
The story of Alison Lee continues to inspire many in the world of golf, showcasing determination and skill amidst the challenges of returning from maternity leave.
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