In the sun-drenched environs of the Pelican Golf Club in Florida, Charley Hull showcased a blend of resilience and skill during the first round of the ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge. Known for her dynamic play, the English golfer didn’t just turn heads with her 6-under 64 score but also with her mid-game physiotherapy session—a rare sight on the course.
Hull’s Strategic Play and Unexpected Pit Stops
Starting off her day on the 10th hole, Hull was quick to set a competitive pace, birdieing the 1st and keeping her momentum with steady pars before picking up additional birdies. Her front nine concluded with a commendable 3-under 32, despite a single bogey on the 8th. Continuing her form, she recorded three more birdies on the back nine without dropping a shot.
Hull’s strategy and execution were nearly flawless, evident in her driving accuracy where she hit 11 of 14 fairways and landed 13 of 18 greens in regulation. Her average drive spanned 269 yards, showcasing her power and precision, which have become her trademarks on the LPGA Tour.
Addressing Physical Setbacks
Despite her strong start, it wasn’t all smooth sailing for Hull. NUCLR GOLF reported an unusual scene: Hull receiving physiotherapy mid-round, a testament to the physical demands of professional golf. Hull herself shed light on the situation in a post-round interview, revealing ongoing issues with her hips which had been exacerbated by recent neglect of her physiotherapy routine.
“I always have bad hips. I’ve been kind of lazy on the physio the last two weeks. Haven’t really had any physio and it’s just gone out,” Hull explained. Her discomfort was further aggravated by stomach pains during the previous day’s pro-am, leading to an overall tightening of her body. She planned further treatment after her round, including physiotherapy and acupuncture, to prepare for the next day’s challenges.
From Victory in Riyadh to Contending in Florida
Hull’s appearance at the ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge came hot on the heels of her triumph at the Ladies European Tour’s Aramco Team Series in Riyadh—her first win in over two years and a clear signal of her returning form. With 13 cuts made in 15 tournaments during the 2024 season on the American circuit, Hull has remained a consistent contender, highlighted by four top 10 finishes including a tie for fifth at both the Dow Championship and the Women’s Scottish Open.
Her performance at the Pelican Golf Club is another indicator of her high-caliber capabilities and resilience, qualities that make her a favorite among golf enthusiasts and a formidable competitor on the LPGA Tour.
Charley Hull’s journey through the ANNIKA tournament is not just a tale of athletic prowess but also of overcoming physical adversities. As she continues to manage her physical health with as much skill as she manages the golf course, Hull’s story is shaping up to be one of the most compelling narratives in women’s golf this season. Fans and fellow golfers alike will be watching closely as she tees up for the next rounds, hopeful that her blend of grit and grace will carry her to the top of the leaderboard.
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