Hull’s prank draws mixed reactions
English golfer Charley Hull has responded to criticism regarding a prank played on her caddie, Adam Woodward, ahead of the Women’s Open. Hull revealed she used a fake scratchcard, purchased from a joke shop in Blackpool, to trick Woodward into believing he had won £100,000. She filmed his reaction, which reportedly transitioned from euphoria to disappointment upon learning it was a prank.
The incident, recounted during a news conference, led to varied reactions online. While some found humour in the stunt, others criticized Hull’s actions, viewing them as potentially cruel. Woodward has been Hull’s caddie for most of her professional career.
Hull, known for her playful demeanour within the sport, dismissed the negative feedback. After her opening round of 69 at Royal Lytham & St Annes, she stated, “People that have complaints about it, I would say loosen up.” She also mentioned that she removes social media from her phone during tournament weeks to stay focused.
Hull maintained that Woodward found the prank amusing after the initial surprise. “He thought it was funny after, he is not uptight,” she said. Hull also indicated she would “100%” repeat a similar prank and plans to buy Woodward 100 scratchcards at the end of the week.
Online commentary and career earnings
The prank garnered significant attention online, with some social media users expressing strong disapproval. One user commented that the prank was “mean” and hoped Woodward would find new employment, suggesting Hull took pleasure in “destroying someone’s hope just because they’re poorer than you.” Another user questioned whether Hull, who has career tournament prize earnings totalling about $12.9 million US, would compensate Woodward, or if she was “sociopathic and proud.”
Conversely, some individuals defended Hull, suggesting the prank was a harmless joke between a player and her caddie, with whom she has worked since 2015. Supporters argued that the dynamic of their relationship might involve frequent pranks and that Hull is not a “mean spirited person.”
The controversy emerged as Hull prepares for the AIG Women’s Open, where she aims for her first career major victory. The winner of the tournament will receive $1.5 million US from a total prize purse of $10 million US.
Tournament progress and other contenders
In the opening round, Hull recorded a two-under-par 69, placing her five shots behind the early leader, Atthaya “Jeeno” Thitikul. The Thai player posted a 64, which was the lowest score recorded in a Lytham Women’s Open. Thitikul has achieved 11 top-10 finishes in majors since 2021 but has yet to secure a major win.
Ryu Hae-ran also made a strong start with a five-under-par 66, which included six birdies. Ryu is seeking her third consecutive major victory, having already won this year’s PGA and Evian Championships. She stated her focus is on enjoying her golf and not stressing about winning, acknowledging the challenge of a links course.
Other notable performances included Lottie Woad’s 69, which enhanced hopes for a home winner. Woad, who turned professional just over a year ago, has risen to fifth in the world rankings. Her round was characterized by avoiding Lytham’s numerous bunkers. Minjee Lee, a former champion, struggled with a 75, while Sophia Popov finished with an even higher score. English players Mimi Rhodes and Annabell Fuller both signed for 71, and Lydia Ko is also even par. Nelly Korda opened with a two-over-par 73, indicating she has work to do in the coming rounds.
Source: theguardian.com
