Charley Hull has made it clear that the criticism surrounding her recent caddie prank does not affect her focus as she continues to chase the AIG Women’s Open title. After opening with a 69, Hull carded an even‑par 71 on Friday morning at Royal Lytham & St Annes, a round that featured three birdies matched by three bogeys. The result left her two strokes under par and firmly in the mix as the final major of the season heads into the weekend. The attention on Hull began before she even teed off.

In a pre‑tournament interview she revealed that she had played a practical joke on her caddie, Adam "Adsy" Woodward, convincing him that he had won a £100,000 prize on a scratch‑card. The stunt was filmed, and the clip – recorded after Hull purchased a counterfeit ticket from a novelty shop in Blackpool – quickly spread across social media.

While many fans found the prank amusing, a vocal segment of online commentators condemned the act as inappropriate, especially given the high‑profile nature of a major championship. Hull, who is currently ranked seventh in the world, dismissed the negative reaction as "just lighten up". She emphasized that the relationship she shares with Woodward is built on mutual respect and a deep friendship that resembles a brother‑sister bond.

"He’s like a big brother to me, one of my best friends," Hull said after her round. "We’re always ribbing each other, and he thought the joke was brilliant. He even posted about it, laughing hard. The backlash?

I just tell people to lighten up." When asked whether the criticism affected her game, Hull was unequivocal: "I don’t care if you don’t get my humour – my friends get it, and that’s why they’re my friends. I wouldn’t do something like that to a stranger who might not take it well." She added that the banter is part of her everyday life, both on and off the course. "Our household is full of jokes and teasing. It’s how I was raised, and people need to be a bit tougher‑skinned." Hull also highlighted Woodward’s reputation as a prankster, noting that the caddie’s own antics often eclipse those of his peers.

"Adsy is the king of pranks. He finds it hilarious, and he loves the attention it brings," she said.

"He texted me last night saying this has been one of the funniest weeks ever because of the prank. So, please stop the negative comments.

If you have something bad to say, I don’t care." Regarding the broader issue of online negativity, Hull offered a pragmatic perspective: "The criticism actually fuels me. We live in a world where you can’t do anything without being judged, and that can stop people from living the life they want.

I just keep being myself. Our family is full of banter, and that’s how we operate.

People need to grow a thicker skin." She also pointed out the irony of those who complain about the backlash while enjoying privileged positions: "You’re in a good place in life. There are people far worse off, and you’re moaning about comments.

If the worst thing in life is someone saying something negative, then you haven’t got life that bad." Despite the drama, Hull’s physical preparation for the tournament remained solid, even though she admitted to getting only about three hours of sleep before her second round. The Englishwoman, a five‑time major runner‑up who has finished second twice in the past three years at this event, said she felt ready for the challenge ahead. "I’m really looking forward to it," Hull said.

"It’s going to be loads of fun. My nerves have settled now. My back was a little sore today, which is why I wasn’t striking the ball as cleanly as I’d like. But I’m not too far back going into the weekend – better than last year!" Hull’s candidness about the prank, the ensuing criticism, and her determination to stay focused offers a glimpse into the mental resilience required at the highest level of women's golf.

As the weekend unfolds, spectators can watch her chase a major victory on Sky Sports Golf, with live coverage continuing from midday Saturday. The storyline now extends beyond scores to a broader conversation about humor, public scrutiny, and the capacity of elite athletes to remain unfazed by the noise surrounding them.