In a stunning display of precision and power, English golfer Charley Hull rode a wave of five birdies to surge into the lead at The Annika golf tournament in Belleair, Florida on Friday. The 26-year-old, who recently ended a two-year winless drought with a victory in Saudi Arabia, carded a four-under 66 to reach 10-under for the tournament, two shots clear of her nearest competitor.
That competitor just happens to be world No. 1 Nelly Korda, setting the stage for a tantalizing weekend showdown between two of the game’s brightest young stars. Korda, playing her first event after a two-month injury layoff, started slowly with a bogey but rallied with back-to-back birdies to post a 68, leaving her well-positioned to challenge Hull.
Hull’s Heroics Fueled By Holiday Incentive
Hull’s stellar play was all the more impressive given the blustery conditions at Pelican Golf Club. Undeterred, she scattered three birdies across a five-hole stretch on the back nine to create separation from the field. Her motivation? A friendly wager with her boyfriend: one extra vacation day for each round with five or more birdies.
“I played pretty solid. It was quite windy, so quite tricky,” Hull said after her round. “Yeah, made five birdies today so extra day on holiday.”
Crowded Leaderboard Sets Stage for Weekend Drama
While Hull and Korda will command the spotlight, a host of challengers lurk just a few shots back. Precocious 20-year-old Alexa Pano electrified the galleries with nine birdies en route to a 64, the low round of the day. She shares third place at seven-under with Jin Young Ko, Nasa Hataoka, and Atthaya Thitikul.
Other notable names in the hunt include:
- Lexi Thompson (-5)
- Lydia Ko (-4)
- Brooke Henderson (-3)
More Than A Trophy On The Line
For many in the field, this week represents a crucial opportunity to secure a spot in next week’s season-ending CME Group Tour Championship and its record $7 million purse. Only the top 60 players in the season-long points race will qualify for the no-cut event and a shot at the $2 million winner’s prize.
Currently on the bubble at No. 61, Mexico’s Maria Fassi fired a second-round 66 to boost her chances of advancing. She sits five shots off the lead alongside notables like Jennifer Kupcho, Minjee Lee and Danielle Kang. A strong weekend could change Fassi’s fortunes dramatically.
Hull, Korda Ready to Duel
While much can change over 36 holes, golf fans are already salivating at the prospect of a final-round duel between Hull and Korda. The pair have combined for 10 LPGA Tour victories but never faced off in the final group with a title on the line.
“I always enjoy playing with Charley. She’s always a fun time,” Korda said. “Hopefully we give a good show.”
Hull, perhaps energized by thoughts of an extended holiday, seems equally enthused by the budding rivalry. “I just focus on my own game and that’s all I can do,” Hull said. “If I play well, that’s great. But I know there are some amazing players out here, so I’ve just got to stay in the moment and enjoy it.”
Tee times for “Hull-Korda I” are set for early afternoon on Saturday. Buckle up.
