The Solheim Cup commences with sparse crowds in the stands as spectators are delayed in reaching the course due to transportation issues.

The LPGA issued a statement expressing regret for the transportation problems.

The Solheim Cup commences with sparse crowds in the stands as spectators are delayed in reaching the course due to transportation issues.
The Solheim Cup commences with sparse crowds in the stands as spectators are delayed in reaching the course due to transportation issues.

The Solheim Cup's opening matches commenced at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club on Friday morning, with fans unable to attend due to transportation problems.

The biennial golf tournament attracted a record crowd, with Team Europe's Esther Henseleit hitting the opening tee shot in front of the excited fans.

Charley Hull and Henseleit are competing against the United States in an alternate shot team event, with Alleren Corpuz and Nelly Korda on the opposing team.

Empty seats at the Solheim Cup
Empty seats on a grandstand are seen on the first hole during a Solheim Cup golf tournament foursomes match at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club, Friday, Sept. 13, 2024, in Gainesville, VA.  (AP Photo/Matt York)

The hundred fans who arrived on time for Friday morning's opening remained silent during the European tee shots and cheered enthusiastically as the Americans took their shots.

Posts on social media reported that attendees had been waiting in lines for buses at Jiffy Lube Live, a concert venue located 40 miles west of Washington, D.C., for hours.

The LPGA posted a statement apologizing.

View of Solheim Cup
The sun rises over the 14th hold before the start of a Solheim Cup golf tournament foursomes match at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club, Friday, Sept. 13, 2024, in Gainesville, Va.  (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)

"The statement acknowledged and deeply apologized to all fans who experienced difficulties with shuttling from parking to the golf course. To address these challenges, significant changes have been made to our transportation system. We are currently working on finding ways to express our regret to those affected."

Before the matches started, a few fans briskly walked towards the stands.

As she observed the match on the fourth hole, former U.S. captain Juli Inkster voiced her disappointment.

Carlota Ciganda in action
Europes Carlota Ciganda watches her putt on the first hole during a Solheim Cup golf tournament foursomes match at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club, Friday, Sept. 13, 2024, in Gainesville, VA.  (AP Photo/Matt York)

"You've got to get the people here," Inkster said.

The opening tee shot at the Solheim Cup is often described as nerve-wracking by players, partly due to the large crowds of fans who gather hours beforehand to support the home team.

The Solheim Cup is being targeted for capture by Europe for a fourth consecutive time against the United States.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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by Ryan Canfield

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