Charley Hull Criticizes Slow Play in Women’s Golf

Charley Hull, a prominent figure in women’s golf, has expressed her frustration over the «ridiculous» pace of play in the sport, suggesting that repeat offenders should face removal from the Tour. Hull’s comments come in the wake of the Annika Sörenstam event in Florida, where Nelly Korda emerged victorious for the seventh time this year. However, the tournament was marred by slow play issues, with Hull being among those who completed their third rounds amid near darkness.

The issue of slow play has been a recurring topic on the LPGA Tour, and Hull’s recent remarks indicate her mounting impatience. «It’s ridiculous,» noted Hull, highlighting the length of time spent on the course in round three, which lasted five hours and 40 minutes. She contrasted this with her experience at home, where a four-ball is completed in three and a half to four hours on challenging courses, describing the situation as «pretty crazy.»

While referees on the tour have the authority to penalize slow play with shot penalties or fines, these are infrequently imposed at the highest levels of both women’s and men’s golf. Hull, recognized as one of the fastest players in the sport, suggested that firmer penalties could include losing one’s Tour card for persistent slow play infractions.

In 2023, the LPGA Tour attempted to address the issue by reducing the number of players making the weekend cut, aiming to hasten the final 36 holes. History shows the topic’s longevity, with notable figures like Stacy Lewis criticizing «dreadfully slow play» at previous tournaments, such as the Scottish Open.

Nelly Korda echoed some of Hull’s sentiments, describing the scheduling issues at Belleair as less than ideal. «It’s kind of hard when you don’t really see,» said Korda, blaming poor planning for the late start times, which left players scrambling to finish in daylight.

In related news, Sergio García is set to rejoin the DP World Tour following his stint with the LIV Golf series, intending to make an 11th appearance at the Ryder Cup. His return comes after settling considerable fines and agreeing to a suspension. García’s application for the 2025 season was confirmed by a DP World Tour spokesperson, noting his commitment to complying with imposed penalties.