Charley Hull has doubled down on her caddie prank after a strong start to the Women's Open, proving that controversy won't derail her focus. The 30-year-old golfer shot a resilient 71 at Royal Lytham & St Annes despite sleeping only three hours before her second round, and she's now firing back at critics who called her joke on caddie Adam Woodward "extremely cruel."
Hull's Defiant Response to Critics
Hull tricked her long-time caddie into believing he had won £100,000 from a fake scratchcard, sparking fierce backlash from golf legends like Laura Davies. Instead of backing down, Hull has embraced the controversy, telling detractors to "grow a pair of balls" and stop seeking sympathy for negative comments.
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"You put yourself in the limelight so you would be silly to think there will not be comments like that," Hull said. "There are people way worse off in life and you're moaning about what people are saying about you." Her boyfriend's advice—"Free publicity is good publicity"—clearly resonated with the English star, who laughed off the drama and moved on.
The Caddie Relationship: More Than a Joke
Hull emphasized that her bond with Woodward is far deeper than outsiders realize. "What people don't understand is mine and Adam's relationship," she explained. "We're very, very close. He's like a big brother to me. He is one of my best friends." Woodward has already shrugged off the incident, confirming that the prank was all in good fun between two trusted colleagues.
Performance Under Pressure at Royal Lytham
Despite the off-course noise, Hull delivered a solid performance, carding a 71 to keep herself in contention at the Women's Open. Her ability to compartmentalize distractions is a hallmark of her mental toughness, a trait that has made her one of the most compelling figures in women's golf.

| Round | Score | Position |
|---|---|---|
| Round 1 | 69 | T5 |
| Round 2 | 71 | T10 |
| Overall | Even Par | In Contention |
Key Takeaways from Hull's Controversy
- Hull's caddie prank was intended as a lighthearted joke between close friends.
- Criticism from golf legends hasn't shaken her confidence or focus.
- Hull's mental resilience is proving crucial in high-stakes tournaments.
- The incident highlights the unique bond between players and their caddies.
FAQ: Charley Hull's Caddie Prank and Women's Open
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As the Women's Open continues, all eyes will be on Hull to see if she can channel this defiant energy into a major victory. Her unapologetic attitude and strong play make her a fan favorite, and she's proving that she can handle anything thrown her way.