Hull responds to criticism of prank on caddie
Golfer Charley Hull has defended a prank in which she convinced her caddie, Adam Woodward, that he had won £100,000 on a scratchcard. The incident drew criticism from some social-media users and golf figures, but Hull said people should “lighten up” and argued that Woodward found it funny afterwards.
The scratchcard was bought from a joke shop in Blackpool before the Women’s Open at Royal Lytham & St Annes. Dame Laura Davies, a four-time major winner, called the stunt “extremely cruel”, while Hull said she would “100%” do it again and planned to buy Woodward 100 scratchcards after the tournament.
- Hull defends £100,000 scratchcard prank on her caddie
- Laura Davies called the stunt extremely cruel
- Hull says Woodward ultimately found it funny
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Charley Hull is a professional golfer. Before the Women's Open at Royal Lytham & St Annes, she played a prank on her caddie, Adam Woodward, using a fake scratchcard that appeared to show a £100,000 prize. The scratchcard was purchased from a joke shop in Blackpool.
Caddies are integral members of a golfer's team, carrying equipment and providing tactical guidance during competitions. The prank prompted criticism on social media and from some in professional golf, with observers questioning whether it was appropriate given the close working relationship between a player and their caddie.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Hull’s defenders could argue that the prank was intended as light-hearted banter between colleagues, and that Woodward’s reported amusement afterwards suggests he did not take lasting offence. They may see the criticism as disproportionate, particularly if the pair share a relationship in which teasing is welcome.
The case against
Critics could argue that making someone believe they have won a life-changing sum can provoke real excitement and then disappointment, making the joke needlessly distressing even if the scratchcard was bought as a gag. They may also see the power of a public figure and employer-like colleague to shape the interaction as a reason to consider the caddie’s position and dignity, rather than relying only on Hull’s account that he found it funny.