Charley Hull, a widely recognised golfer, whose image, complete with a hanging cigarette, went viral during the US Open this year, has become a topic of conversation. The pictures reminded many of renowned golfers from past eras who also smoked during gameplay. Despite this, Hull’s performance at the tournament was commendable, securing a position within the top 20.
With the initiation of the women’s Olympic golf competition at Le Golf National from Wednesday onwards, Hull will once again come under the public eye. However, no repeats of her usual ‘ciggie’ habits are to be expected as she represents Team GB.
“I have a smoking habit on the course,” Hull confirmed, “But I plan to refrain from it this week.”
Upon being questioned about why she will not smoke around the suburbs of Versailles, she explained that she believes it is disallowed. The Paris 2024 organisers have confirmed that Hull’s understanding is correct, informing all that every Olympic venue is a no-smoking area. This rule applies universally, to Hull and every spectator in the stands.
Hull admits that the smoking ban might affect her performance. “I use smoking to relax a bit but I have to follow the rules”, stated Hull.
No longer concerned with the uproar from her actions at the US Open, the 28-year-old Hull stayed away from Instagram and all social media for about half a year. She allows her agent to manage her online presence instead.
Joining Hull in representing Team GB is Georgia Hall. The top contender for the event is the United States’ Nelly Korda, who previously claimed the gold in Tokyo.
Among those representing Ireland in this event include Leona Maguire and Stephanie Meadow. Meadow will play her first game at 8am Irish time alongside Perrine Delacour from France and Belgium’s Manon de Roey. Ashleigh Buhai from South Africa will be playing with Maguire and Hall in a three-ball game beginning at 11.17am Irish time.