Charley Hull is a renowned professional golfer who has left a lasting mark on the LPGA Tour. Born on March 20, 1996, in Kettering, England, Hull has gained fame for her exceptional talent, competitive spirit, and passion for the game. Over the years, she has built an impressive career, from her early days as a golfing prodigy to becoming one of the most recognizable names in women’s golf. Here are 20 fun facts you may not know about Charley Hull.
1. British Talent with Humble Beginnings
Charley Hull was born in Kettering, Northamptonshire, England, on March 20, 1996. This small town is where her golfing dreams began, supported by her family and her local golfing community.
2. Swinging a Club at Two
Hull’s passion for golf was evident from a young age. She began swinging a golf club at just two years old, thanks to the encouragement of her father, Dave Hull. By the time she was five, she was already making waves at the Kettering Golf Club.
3. Sporting Genes
Athleticism runs in Charley’s family. Her mother, Basienka Hull, was a county-level tennis player in Poland. This might explain Charley’s natural ability and dedication to sport.
4. Homeschooled for Success
At 13, Hull decided to leave traditional school and be homeschooled, giving her more time to focus on her golf career. This decision laid the foundation for her eventual success in professional golf.
5. Amateur Achievements
Before turning pro, Hull rose to number three in the World Amateur Golf Ranking. She earned prestigious victories in the English Amateur, Welsh Amateur, and the Harder Hall Invitational in the United States, cementing her status as a future star.
6. Turning Pro at 16
In 2013, at just 16 years old, Hull turned professional and wasted no time making an impact. She achieved five consecutive runner-up finishes on the Ladies European Tour (LET), proving she was a force to be reckoned with.
7. Accolades and Recognition
2013 was a breakthrough year for Hull. She earned the LET Rookie of the Year title and was named Best International Newcomer at the SJA British Sports Awards. Her stellar performances earned her respect from the golfing world.
8. First Professional Victory
In March 2014, Hull secured her first professional win at the Lalla Meryem Cup in Morocco. This victory was the first of many, as she went on to claim multiple titles, including two LPGA Tour wins by 2024.
9. Youngest Solheim Cup Player
Hull made history at just 17 by becoming the youngest player ever selected for the Solheim Cup in 2013. Her performance in this prestigious team competition further solidified her place among golf’s elite.
10. Solheim Cup Commitment
Initially, Hull wasn’t ecstatic about her Solheim Cup selection—she was disappointed to miss a friend’s birthday party! Despite this, her performance was remarkable, reflecting her competitive spirit.
11. Teenage Triumph at Solheim
Hull’s impressive Solheim Cup debut at 17 is a testament to her mental toughness. Balancing teenage life with professional golf, she performed with the maturity of a seasoned athlete.
12. Victory Over a Childhood Hero
In 2014, Hull achieved a significant career milestone by defeating her idol, Paula Creamer, at the U.S. Women’s Open with a 5&4 victory. Despite the win, she graciously asked for Creamer’s autograph for a friend, demonstrating her humility.
13. Smoking on the Course
Hull is known for her relaxed demeanor, even under pressure. In 2024, she was seen signing an autograph while holding a cigarette—a moment that generated buzz among fans.
14. Woburn Golf Club
Hull calls Woburn Golf Club in Bedfordshire her home course. This prestigious club has been a significant part of her golfing journey, providing the perfect environment for her continued development.
15. Major Contender
While Hull has yet to win a major championship, she has come tantalizingly close. She has finished runner-up in three majors, including the 2016 ANA Inspiration and the 2023 U.S. Women’s Open.
16. Olympic Representation
Hull represented Great Britain at the 2016 Rio Olympics, where golf returned after a 112-year absence. She came close to medaling, finishing seventh, just two shots away from the bronze.
17. Personal Life
Hull married MMA fighter Ozzie Smith in 2019, but the couple later divorced. Despite the challenges in her personal life, she has remained focused on her career and continued to excel in golf.
18. Liverpool FC Fan
Hull is not just a golf enthusiast—she’s also a passionate football fan. Her favorite Premier League team? Liverpool FC!
19. Coached by Matt Belsham
Hull’s coach, Matt Belsham, is well-known in the golf world for his work with top players like Alex Noren and Matt Wallace. His guidance has been instrumental in Hull’s continued success.
20. Boxto Golf Shoes
On the course, Hull relies on Boxto Golf shoes, known for their superior traction and sleek design. As a brand ambassador, she highlights the importance of comfort and performance in her game.
Charley Hull’s journey from a young prodigy to one of the top female golfers in the world is nothing short of inspiring. Her story is a reminder that passion, dedication, and hard work can lead to greatness. Fans eagerly anticipate what’s next for this rising star as she continues to make her mark in the world of professional golf.
