Charley Hull’s Scratch-Card Prank Dominates Talk at the Women’s Open

During the first week of the AIG Women’s Open, world No. 7-ranked English golfer Charley Hull staged a prank on her long-time caddie Adam Woodward. She gave him a fake scratch ticket that appeared to be worth £100,000 ($134,000) and posted a video of his jubilant reaction before revealing the ruse. The clip quickly spread on social media, prompting a wave of criticism that labeled the stunt “cruel” and “tasteless.”

ESPN

Despite the controversy, Hull posted a 2-under 69 in the opening round and followed with a resilient 71 on day two, leaving her tied for eighth place after 36 holes. Her aggregate of –2 kept her four strokes behind leader Shiho Kuwaki of Japan. The results show that the prank and the accompanying online backlash did not hinder her play.

The Guardian

Hull repeatedly told reporters that the joke was harmless and that Woodward “thought it was funny after.” She emphasized the closeness of their relationship, describing Woodward as “like a big brother” and “one of my best friends.” Hull said she deletes social-media apps during tournament weeks to stay present, adding that she will “buy him 100 scratch cards” after the event. She also urged critics to “loosen up” and warned that anyone in the public eye should expect comment.

ESPN

Veteran champion Laura Davies publicly called Hull’s stunt “extremely cruel,” reflecting the sentiment of many fans who found the prank insensitive. The criticism centered on the perceived exploitation of a teammate for entertainment, especially given the financial implication of a fake £100,000 win.

The Guardian

• “He thought it was funny after,” — Extended Reactions Charley Hull

ESPN

• “You put yourself in the limelight so you would be silly to think there will not be comments like that,” — Extended Reactions Charley Hull

The Guardian

• “What people don’t understand is mine and Adam’s relationship,” — Extended Reactions Charley Hull

The Guardian

• “I slept 12 hours the night before,” — Extended Reactions Charley Hull

The Guardian