Charley Hull and Lexi Thompson Spark Tension During US Women’s Open

By DANIEL MATTHEWS
Published: 09:24 EDT, 30 May 2025 | Updated: 12:10 EDT, 30 May 2025

Tensions on the golf course can quickly escalate, and the opening round of the US Women’s Open showcased just that. Golf star Charley Hull seemed to lose her patience with fellow competitor Lexi Thompson during a challenging day at Erin Hills in Wisconsin, where the stakes were high with a $2.4 million prize for the tournament winner. Both players, alongside world No. 1 Nelly Korda, struggled on this demanding course as they navigated their way through a tense yet pivotal round.

Charley Hull, known for her competitive spirit and outspoken nature, expressed frustration over Thompson’s pace during their round. Right from the outset, as they approached the first hole, it was apparent that the English golfer had issues with her American counterpart’s meticulous pre-shot routine. A video circulating online captured Hull’s obvious impatience, with the camera catching her exhalation of a deep sigh as Thompson focused on her putt.

This reluctance to accept slow play is not new for Hull. She has been vocal about the need for changes in the women’s game to address slow play, previously referred to as a ‘crazy’ issue by her. Gordon’s contentious claims in 2024 sparked conversations about penalties for slow-play offenders, suggesting a radical new approach: any player receiving three bad timings should suffer a two-shot penalty, with instant loss of their Tour card following a third infraction.

Fast forward to Thursday at the US Women’s Open, and Hull’s frustrations grew as the duo progressed through the first few holes. A notable moment occurred on the eighth hole when she moved ahead to the ninth before Thompson and Korda had even completed their shots on the previous hole. Observers noted the players took approximately five and a half hours to complete their round, a considerable duration for any professional tournament.

Lexi Thompson’s performance that day ended with a score of 73, placing her at one-over-par and tying for 59th position. Conversely, Charley Hull and Nelly Korda found themselves more competitive, both starting the second round at level par. Clearly, Hull managed to develop a better rhythm throughout her round compared to Thompson, which only added to Hull’s already raised eyebrows regarding Thompson’s playing speed.

The social media uproar following the round quickly illustrated how closely fans watch every detail of these athletes’ performances. Tweets highlighting Hull’s body language, her visible exasperation, and comments on the slow pace brought the issue of slow play into further public discussion. Golf enthusiasts commented en masse, discussing the importance of pacing in the sport and Hull’s apparent need for a smoother match.

While the duo’s rivalry was palpable on the course, both athletes did eventually agree on the topic of slow play. Thompson acknowledged the negative impact it has on the game and the fans, stating, “Rounds shouldn’t take more than four and a half hours, especially in threesomes.” Their shared concern indicates the potential for a conversation on how the sport can evolve for both competition and enjoyment for players and spectators alike.

The US Women’s Open, featuring some of the best talents in women’s golf, fosters an arena for competitive spirit and intense drama. As players like Hull and Thompson vie for respect and recognition in this elite field, their interactions reveal the complexity of emotions and pressures in professional sports. The performance and subsequent fallout serve as a lesson in both sportsmanship and the conduct expected in high-stakes tournaments.

In retrospect, the opening round at the US Women’s Open not only highlighted the physical demands of the sport but also the psychological pressures athletes face under the watchful eyes of fans and critics alike. As the tournament progresses, it will be intriguing to see how Hull, Thompson, and other competitors navigate the tense environment while striving for golf excellence.

The discussions surrounding slow play will likely continue among fans and professionals as the sport seeks to maintain its integrity while appealing to a new generation of viewers. Whether through methodical adjustments or technological innovations, the ongoing dialogue around pace in golf remains crucial for the future of the game. With players like Hull advocating for change, the conversation is sure to keep evolving, creating a new landscape where the balance between tradition and progression can be maintained.

As the US Women’s Open unfolds, all eyes will be on these formidable golf stars. With the potential to influence future matches and standards of play, Hull and Thompson’s exchange—and the larger dialogue surrounding pace of play—will be key topics to watch as the tournament evolves. The rich tapestry of competition, patience, and rivalry will undoubtedly define this iconic event in women’s sports history.