Nicholas returns as Europe Solheim Cup captain

The Ladies European Tour also announced Wednesday a change in the qualification criteria. Europe's team will consist of the leading four Europeans on the tour money list, followed by the leading four tour members on the women's world ranking. Nicholas will then have four captain's picks.

The Solheim Cup will be played Sept. 23-25 at Killeen Castle, a Jack Nicklaus-designed course in Ireland.

The Americans won the cup in August to remain unbeaten on home soil with a 16-12 victory over Europe. The United States has an 8-3 lead in the competition that dates to 1990.