Europe looked to be heading for defeat but victory in the last three singles matches ensured the host nation wrestled back the trophy from their American opponents with a 14.5-13.5 triumph.

The destination of the Solheim Cup was uncertain right to the final hole of the concluding singles contest between captain's pick Pettersen and Marina Alex.

Alex missed a long birdie chance on 17th and squandered another opportunity to retain the cup for the US on the 18th.

Pettersen made her pay with a near-perfect last hole to snatch a point and the trophy for the home side.

Bronte Law, who ensured it would go down to the 18th when she beat American Ally McDonald 2&1, sprinted up the fairway to join the raucous celebrations after Pettersen's eight-foot putt found its target.

The win for the Norwegian capped off a remarkable comeback from Europe, whose hopes of regaining the cup were hanging by a thread when they trailed 13.5-11.5 in the afternoon singles.

"It is just unbelievable," said Europe captain Catriona Matthew.

"There has never been a better moment. 

"To come down to the final putt and for Suzann [Pettersen] to get it was just phenomenal.

"We knew experience would win it and for Bronte [Law] and Suzann to pull it out was just incredible. 

"Nothing tops this. 

"This is the best by far."