Suzann Pettersen has issued an apology for her actions after controversy over the concession of a putt threatened to overshadow Team USA's victory in the Solheim Cup.

The Norwegian has come in for much criticism after denying she and team-mate Charley Hull had conceded a two-foot putt on the 17th hole of their fourball match on Sunday morning after America's Alison Lee had picked up her ball.

Europe were awarded the hole and went on to win the fourball contest two up but it was the Americans who eventually claimed the Cup with a stunning comeback in the singles on Sunday afternoon sealing a 14 1/2-13 1/2 victory.

Lee and Hull were left in tears on the 18th green after the incident with Dame Laura Davies left "disgusted" by Pettersen's actions. Despite defending her stance yesterday, the 34-year-old has now apologised for "not thinking about the bigger picture".

"I've never felt more gutted and truly sad about what went down Sunday on the 17th at the Solheim Cup," she wrote on Instagram.

"I am so sorry for not thinking about the bigger picture in the heat of the battle and competition. I was trying my hardest for my team and put the single match and the point that could be earned ahead of sportsmanship and the game of golf itself!

"I feel like I let my team down and I am sorry."