English golfer Charley Hull is receiving backlash after playing a prank on her caddie, Adam Woodward, that many criticize as going too far. The three-time LPGA champion confessed at a recent press conference before the AIG Women’s Open that she had duped Woodward into thinking he had won £100,000 ($188,300 Cdn) from a fake lottery card she had purchased at a novelty shop in Blackpool.
Hull recounted how Woodward excitedly shared his fake win with others, only to have his hopes dashed when she revealed the truth, causing him to consider quitting his job. Despite sharing the prank video on social media with a light-hearted caption, Woodward has not publicly responded, while online commentators have condemned the joke as cruel and heartless.
Some critics pointed out Hull’s substantial career earnings of approximately $12.9 million US, questioning the motivation behind the prank and suggesting a financial gesture to compensate Woodward. However, others defended Hull, highlighting the long-standing relationship and playful banter between her and Woodward since they began working together in 2015.
As Hull gears up to compete in the AIG Women’s Open with a $10 million US prize purse, the controversy surrounding the prank is overshadowing her bid for a first major title. The event’s winner stands to claim $1.5 million US, setting the stage for a high-stakes tournament despite the off-course drama.