English golfer Charley Hull saw an unlikely moment gain widespread attention at this year's U.S. Women's Open. The world No. 8 found herself at the center of online discussion after being photographed casually smoking a cigarette while signing autographs.
.@HullCharley making John Daly proud. 😂 pic.twitter.com/hmp7EaiKRr
— GOLF.com (@GOLF_com) May 28, 2024
The seemingly innocuous act lit up social media platforms, drawing Hull more eyeballs than much of her accomplished career on the LPGA Tour. That includes two tour victories and six Solheim Cup appearances. Hull was also the runner-up at last year's national championship.
Despite finishing six-over and tied for 19th place at this week's event, Hull embraced the viral notoriety. "Just one cigarette, it lit up," she laughed, referring to both the cigarette and online reaction. Hull noticed many new supporters at Lancaster Country Club shouting her name throughout the tournament.
One fan even boldly handed Hull his phone number, telling her she dropped something. Hull opted not to contact him. She called it a "wild week" and said she wished crowds were always as engaged as during the viral episode.
Hull's outgoing personality was further highlighted on TV during Golf Channel's coverage. Fellow Solheim Cup veteran Mel Reid shared a story about Hull's locker room antics during a past competition. Hull remains true to her unfiltered self and says people will "either like it or lump it."
The extra attention on social media translated to a major boost in Hull's Instagram following, surpassing 70,000 new followers this week alone.
Read more: Yuka Saso Triumphs at U.S. Women's Open for Second Time
Some other memorable moments from Charley Hull's golf career
Becoming the youngest player to qualify for the 2014 Curtis Cup at age 16. She went 3-1 in matches to help Great Britain and Ireland win.
Winning her first LPGA title in 2014 at the ShopRite LPGA Classic at age 17, becoming the youngest winner in tour history at the time.
Playing for Europe in five Solheim Cup appearances from 2015-2019, compiling a 10-5-3 overall record. She helped Europe win in 2015 and 2017.
Defeating So Yeon Ryu in a playoff to win her second LPGA title at the CME Group Tour Championship in 2016.
Tying the Women's British Open scoring record with a final round 62 in 2016, finishing third.
Shooting a course record 63 at the Women's Australian Open in 2017 to set a new 72-hole scoring record.
Finishing second at the 2021 Women's British Open and 2021 U.S. Women's Open, her best majors results to date.
Shooting 25-under par to break the tournament scoring record at the 2021 Ascendant LPGA benefitting The Solheim Cup.
Playing on the winning European Solheim Cup team as a vice-captain in 2022 after being an injured player.
References: https://www.golfdigest.com/story/charley-hull-us-womens-open-cigarette-viral-moment
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