Charley Hull Leads Women’s Open with 67 at St Andrews

Charley Hull of England fired an impressive five-under-par 67 to lead the Women’s Open after the opening round at St Andrews. The 28-year-old made four birdies on the back nine at the Old Course, thus placing her one stroke ahead of American Nelly Korda and China’s Ruoning Yin. Hull, who is chasing her first major title, finished as the runner-up in both the Women’s Open and Women’s US Open last year.

She expressed her confidence and enjoyment of the tournament, stating, “I’ve been working on my game a lot this year and I feel confident. I’m trying to enjoy every minute – it’s not every day you get to play St Andrews, so I’m just grateful to be out there, having fun and inspiring young kids.” Moreover, Hull impressed in a competitive group that included world number one Korda and defending Women’s Open champion Lilia Vu.

She started her round with two birdies and a bogey reaching the turn at one under par. Her performance on the back nine despite windy conditions allowed her to overtake Yin, who led for much of the day. Yin, the 2023 Women’s PGA Championship winner shot four-under 68 with seven birdies and three bogeys. In contrast, Korda, a two-time major winner recorded five birdies and one bogey finishing two strokes behind Charley Hull.

Meanwhile, Vu carded a 69, placing her in a tie with several other competitors including Andrea Lee, Patty Tavatanakit, Lee Mi-hyang, Mao Saigo and Jenny Shin. Among other notable performances, Hull’s compatriot Georgia Hall finished on one under par after an eagle on her final hole. Additionally, English amateur Lottie Woad made an even-par 72 with three birdies and three bogeys.