Charley Hull is gearing up for the highly anticipated AIG Women’s Open at St Andrews, with the event set to commence on Thursday, 20 August 2024. Speaking about the upcoming tournament, Hull expressed the deeply personal and historical significance of a potential victory, describing a win at this prestigious course as “very special.”
Hull, now 28, has been a prominent figure in women’s golf, notably finishing as the runner-up in last year’s competition. She narrowly lost to American Lilia Vu, who clinched the title with a remarkable final-round score of 67 at Walton Heath. As the Women’s Open returns to St Andrews for the third time, Hull reflected on the unique atmosphere and emotional impact of the course. “I teed it up on the back nine yesterday morning, and as you walk down 17 and 18 you get goosebumps. It’s pretty cool,” she remarked. Hull’s reverence for St Andrews, often referred to as the “home of golf,” highlights her longtime dream of securing a win there. “Obviously it’s the home of golf. It would be a special win. Something that you’ve always dreamed of as a baby, so it would be very special,” she added.
Hull will begin her campaign Thursday, competing in a noteworthy grouping with defending champion Lilia Vu and world number one Nelly Korda, bringing together some of the top talent in the sport. Despite her current rank of world number 10, Hull is determined and hopeful about her chances.
The past year has seen Hull navigating both competitive highs and physical challenges. Recently, she tied for 27th place at the Olympics earlier in August and achieved fifth place at last week’s Scottish Open. However, her journey has not been without setbacks. Hull withdrew from the Aramco Team Series in July due to shoulder tightness, a condition complicated by her degenerative arthritis. She underwent thorough treatment, including acupuncture and frequent needling, to manage her condition. “My shoulder just got a little bit tight so I had acupuncture, and needles in it every other day,” Hull explained. She further mentioned the necessity of maintaining warmth in her shoulder to prevent stiffness, especially in cold weather. “I’ve actually got it after this. Because when it’s cold, it can play up a bit. I’ve got degenerative arthritis in it as well,” she stated.
Despite these challenges, Hull maintains an optimistic outlook and feels prepared for the Women’s Open. Reflecting on her performance at the Olympics, Hull acknowledged initial nerves but overcame them to finish strongly. “I think the first round of the Olympics was more just because of nerves. Like putting in a lot of work, but coming back after that five weeks off, I just get a little bit nervous,” she admitted. “But it was just the first round of the Olympics, I don’t know why, and then the last three rounds I was under par and then I was back to myself and carried it on last week.”
Through continued treatment and careful management of her shoulder condition, Hull is confident and ready to face the challenges at St Andrews. “So when it does get cold, it gets a bit stiff, so (I) just try to keep it warm. Apart from that, I’m healthy and ready to go,” she assured her supporters.
As Hull prepares to tee off, the golf community will undoubtedly watch with great interest, knowing that a win at St Andrews would be a crowning achievement in her career. With her determination and resilience, Hull aims to fulfill her dream on one of golf’s most iconic stages.
1st Round Tee Times here.
