Charley Hull Targets Victory at AIG Women’s Open

Charley Hull, Europe’s sole strong contender for the AIG Women’s Open at St Andrews has shown significant improvement since her challenging start at the Olympics earlier this month. After a poor opening round of 81, Hull bounced back with an impressive performance at the Scottish Open, finishing fifth. Now, she aims for a major victory at the historic Old Course where she previously competed as a teenager in 2013.

Hull, who finished as runner-up to Lilia Vu last year is determined to excel, relying on her caddie for guidance and employing strategies to handle the course’s conditions, including strong winds and wide views. As she prepares for this week’s tournament, Hull also looks ahead to her seventh Solheim Cup next month. With many of her potential European teammates struggling for form, Charley Hull’s performance could be crucial for Europe.

The European team, led by Captain Suzann Pettersen faces challenges with several top players like Celine Boutier and Georgia Hall not performing at their peak. Despite this, Germany’s Esther Henseleit has emerged as a strong contender showcasing impressive form. The Women’s Open will feature top competitors like Lauren Coughlin, who is making her Solheim debut and defending champion Lilia Vu.

Lydia Ko, fresh off an Olympic gold medal and world number one Nelly Korda, who has cooled off after an early-season surge, are also strong contenders. The Old Course, extending 6,784 yards, presents unique challenges including longer distances on some holes and the need for precise ball striking and tactical play.

This week’s tournament promises to be a captivating conclusion to the golf major season, offering both historic challenges and exciting opportunities for the players.