European Solheim Cup captain Suzann Pettersen has dismissed concerns regarding Charley Hull’s smoking habit during the tournament. Pettersen, leading the European team in Virginia, allowed Hull to smoke at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club, despite the English golfer being prohibited from doing so during the Olympics.
Hull, a seven-time Solheim Cup participant, was seen borrowing a lighter from a fan during practice, and Pettersen has expressed full support for her player’s personal choices. Pettersen emphasized that Hull is old enough to make her own decisions, adding that Hull enjoys interacting with fans and is performing at her best as a result.
Hull’s habit of smoking while playing gained attention earlier this year, particularly during the U.S. Women’s Open in May, where she was seen smoking while signing autographs. The golfer has since stated that smoking helps her relax on the course. Pettersen, confident in Hull’s form, praised her player’s enthusiasm and competitive spirit, stating that Hull is ready to help Team Europe secure a fourth consecutive Solheim Cup win.
“She’s flying high, doing her own thing,” Pettersen remarked, expressing relief that there’s only one Charley Hull on the team, as managing more could prove challenging.