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Team Europe is on American soil for this year’s edition of the Solheim Cup as it takes on the US at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club in Gainesville, Virginia.
Given recent history in the event, many expect a hostile crowd to be on hand to cheer the Americans to their first win since 2017. Europe’s Charley Hull isn’t worried about unruly fans. In fact, she’s already found a way to win them over!
@dailyshotofawesomeCharley Hull borrows a lighter on the course.♬ original sound – Daily Shot of Awesome
The British golfer was spotted bumming a lighter from a crowd member on Thursday. The moment immediately made waves on social media.
It’s far from the noted smoker’s first viral moment.
The golfer received attention for lighting up on the course at the US Open in June. She was then later seen signing autographs with a dart hanging off her lip at the Women’s PGA Championship.
In both instances, she became an immediate fan favorite. She’s now working her magic at the Solheim Cup, too.
Unfortunately, that might have a negative effect on her golf game!
Charley Hull wants the crowd to be against her.
She said as much in a recent conversation with Golf.com.
Here’s what she had to say in a phone interview with Dylan Dethier:
DD: By now, you’ve seen it all at the Solheim. Is there anything about this one in 2024, down in Virginia, that you think will feel different?
CH: Mostly it’ll be more of the same, which is good. But I actually somewhat prefer playing Solheim Cup in America. I like it when the crowd’s a little bit against you. I don’t understand when people say, “Oh, you’ve got the upper hand on home soil.” I play better when people are against me, because I want to prove them wrong.
Hull says she enjoys playing “on the road” in the Solheim Cup because the hostile environments provide motivation.
Team Europe has been bracing for an angry atmosphere in Virginia this weekend.
“The Americans will feel it is essential to win and it’s going to be difficult for Europe because it can get quite hostile. The American crowds will be out there to win it. It will be very pro-American and that will be really tough.”
-Former Team Europe captain Mickey Walker
That still may be the case for most!
Charley Hull, though, could be the exception. From what we’ve seen thus far, her popularity will span both fanbases as she looks to help the Europeans retain the Solheim Cup.