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Charley Hull Surges Up Leaderboard at AIG Women’s Open 2025 – Can She Win?
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Charley Hull’s Stunning Third-Round Charge
PORTHCAWL, Wales – England’s Charley Hull electrified the crowds at Royal Porthcawl with a sensational third-round 66 at the 2025 AIG Women’s Open, vaulting herself into contention for the title. After starting the weekend 11 shots behind 36-hole leader Miyu Yamashita, Hull’s Moving Day masterclass has put her just three strokes back heading into the final round.
Hull, a two-time LPGA Tour winner, showcased her trademark aggressive play, carding seven birdies in a round that reignited her chances at the fifth and final major of the season.
Hull’s Key Moments in Round 3
Hull’s charge began early with a birdie on the par-4 2nd hole, immediately shifting her into red numbers. She then caught fire with three consecutive birdies on holes 5, 6, and 7, racing to 4-under for the day. A final front-nine birdie on the 9th saw her make the turn at 5-under with a 31 on the card.
The back nine saw Hull continue her assault, with back-to-back birdies on 12 and 13 pushing her to 7-under. A bogey on 14 briefly halted her momentum, but she steadied herself with four closing pars to finish at 6-under for the tournament.
Hull’s Major Championship Experience
Charley Hull is no stranger to Sunday pressure in majors. Throughout her career, she has been within five shots of the lead seven times entering the final round. Her most recent close call came at the 2024 AIG Women’s Open at St. Andrews, where she faded to T20 after a tough final round.
Despite her pre-tournament doubts about links golf suiting her game, Hull has thrived at Royal Porthcawl, making 17 birdies through 54 holes while minimizing mistakes.
Putting Mastery: Hull’s Secret Weapon
One of the biggest reasons for Hull’s surge has been her putting brilliance. In the third round, she needed just 23 putts, the fewest of any player. For the week, she is tied for first in fewest putts (81), proving that her short game is in peak form.
“I just made birdies when I had the chance,” Hull said. “Apart from the last hole, where I misread a tricky downhill putt, I felt really confident.”
Final Round Challenges & Weather Impact
The final round at Royal Porthcawl is expected to be a grueling test, with rain and strong winds forecasted. These conditions could separate the contenders from the pretenders, demanding precision and mental toughness.
Hull, known for her fearless attitude, will need to stay aggressive while avoiding costly mistakes. A three-shot deficit is far from insurmountable, especially in unpredictable weather.
Hull’s Mindset: “Nothing to Lose”
When asked about her approach for Sunday, Hull was relaxed and confident:
“Yeah, 100%. I’ve got nothing to lose, have I? It’s like playing golf with your mates—you just want to make birdies on every hole. That’s how it feels tomorrow.”
This positive, attacking mindset could be the key to her securing a come-from-behind victory.
Can Charley Hull Claim Her First AIG Women’s Open Title?
With 18 holes remaining, Hull is in prime position to chase down leader Miyu Yamashita. A win would mark her first major championship victory and fulfill a lifelong dream in front of a passionate home crowd.
Key Factors for Hull’s Success:
✔ Red-hot putting (Fewest putts this week)
✔ Experience in major contention
✔ Aggressive, birdie-heavy approach
✔ Support from British fans
If Hull can maintain her third-round form and handle the challenging conditions, she could lift the AIG Women’s Open trophy by Sunday evening.
Final Thoughts
Charley Hull’s Saturday 66 has set up a thrilling final round at Royal Porthcawl. With her never-say-die attitude and flawless short game, she has every chance to complete the comeback and etch her name in golf history.
Will Sunday belong to Charley Hull? Tune in to find out!