In a thrilling display of precision and grit, Charley Hull has kicked off the 2026 season with a bang, clinching the LET's PIF Saudi Ladies International title in Riyadh. But here's where it gets even more impressive: her one-shot triumph came after a stunning final-round 65, leaving competitors in the dust. And this is the part most people miss—Hull's victory wasn't just about her final birdie on the 18th hole; it was the culmination of a strategic back-nine charge that included an eagle on the par-five 12th, propelling her to a clubhouse lead of 19-under par.
South Africa's Casandra Alexander had a golden opportunity to challenge Hull's lead, sitting at 19-under herself. However, a bogey on the 17th hole followed by a par on the 18th sealed her fate, leaving her tied for second with Japan's Akie Iwai at 18-under. This raises a thought-provoking question: Could Alexander have handled the pressure differently, or was Hull's performance simply unstoppable? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Hull's win in Saudi Arabia marks her first tournament victory since her LPGA Tour triumph in Cincinnati last September. It's also her first Ladies European Tour title since November 2024, when she dominated at the Aramco Team Series event—also held at the Riyadh Golf Club. With this win, Hull now boasts five LET titles ahead of her 30th birthday next month. Talk about a milestone!
Starting the day three shots behind overnight leaders Hye-Jin Choi and Rio Takeda, Hull's final round began modestly, sitting at just one-under through 10 holes. But then came the turnaround: four birdies and one eagle in the closing holes, a performance that highlights her ability to peak under pressure. Is this the secret to her success, or is there more to her strategy?
After claiming the trophy, Hull shared her disbelief: 'It feels great... it's gone a bit too fast today! I was only one under through nine holes, and then I made a charge on the back nine.' She humorously credited her boyfriend's advice—'go out and make loads of birdies'—and even joked about a mid-round snack of mashed potatoes as her secret weapon. 'I've worked really hard this off-season, so it's nice to see results straight away,' she added.
Hull's compatriot, Mimi Rhodes, also had a strong showing, finishing tied for sixth with a final-round 67. As the season unfolds, fans can catch all the action from the LET and LPGA Tours, majors, and more live on Sky Sports Golf. Whether you're a seasoned golf enthusiast or a beginner, this is a season you won't want to miss. But here's the real question: Can Hull maintain this momentum, or will new challengers rise to the occasion? Share your predictions below!
