Tensions simmered quietly on the opening day of tournament action as Charley Hull appeared visibly frustrated with Lexi Thompson’s pace of play during the first round. The English star, known for her quick tempo and aggressive style, was left fidgeting and noticeably unsettled as Thompson’s deliberate rhythm slowed the group to a crawl.
Though Hull didn’t explicitly call out Thompson during post-round interviews, her body language on the course told a different story—deep sighs, crossed arms, and extended glances toward the next tee while waiting. Sources close to Hull confirmed that she was “not best pleased” with how the round unfolded, especially as the group’s pace dragged significantly behind the rest of the field.
The issue of slow play has long been a contentious topic in professional golf, with Thompson often finding herself at the center of such conversations. While she remains a meticulous and focused player, critics argue that her time-consuming pre-shot routine disrupts the flow for others in her group.
Hull, one of the fastest players on tour, thrives on momentum. Her natural rhythm is often seen as a key part of her game, allowing her to stay mentally engaged and keep the pressure on her opponents. Having to wait extensively between shots seemed to throw her off slightly, as she posted a score that, while respectable, fell below her recent form.
“I like to keep things moving,” Hull has said in past interviews. “It’s just how I play best.”
Fans and commentators were quick to notice the tension, with social media lighting up with speculation. Some defended Thompson, noting that within the rules, she has every right to take her time, especially in high-stakes rounds. Others, however, echoed Hull’s apparent frustration, calling for stricter enforcement of pace-of-play regulations on the women’s circuit.
Whether the LPGA will address the situation remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Charley Hull isn’t the type to let such distractions slide quietly. As the tournament continues, all eyes will be on both players—not just for their scores, but for how they navigate the fine balance between rhythm, respect, and the rules of the game.