In a sobering reminder of how even the fittest athletes are vulnerable to sudden illness, England’s Charley Hull was forced to withdraw from the Amundi Evian Championship after collapsing twice on the course due to a suspected viral infection. Hull, 29, who has been one of the most dynamic figures in women’s golf this season, was in the hunt for her elusive maiden major when her body ultimately said enough was enough.
A Promising Start Cut Short
Hull, ranked No. 19 in the world, began her opening round at the Evian Resort Golf Club with the promise and grit that have defined her recent form. Through 12 holes, she was one under par — a position that kept her well in contention amid the demands of one of the LPGA’s five major championships. She had cancelled out an early bogey at the 10th hole with a birdie on the 11th and added two more birdies on the 15th and 17th to offset a dropped shot at the 18th. But even the best-laid plans and strongest swings can’t outrun illness.
It was on her second nine that Hull’s condition deteriorated alarmingly. She was first seen sitting by a bunker, clearly looking unwell, before collapsing near the fourth tee box. After a tense 15-minute medical pause, Hull attempted to continue, striking her tee shot — only to collapse again moments later. She was stretchered off the course in a golf buggy, her immediate tournament hopes dashed. Reports from Sky Sports later confirmed that Hull was “sat up and feeling better,” offering at least some relief to fans and fellow players who had witnessed the distressing scenes.
Recent Form and What’s at Stake
Hull’s withdrawal is especially gutting given the shape of her game this summer. The Englishwoman has been knocking on the door of a breakthrough major, posting back-to-back top-12 finishes at the U.S. Women’s Open and the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship. Just last week, she claimed a strong fourth-place finish at the KPMG Women’s Irish Open — a performance that reaffirmed her status as one of the most consistent European players in recent months.
This run of form made her one to watch at the Evian, a venue where she recorded her best result — a share of third place — in 2022. Her length off the tee and fearless shot-making are tailor-made for the undulating fairways and tricky greens of the Evian Resort. Former pro and Sky Sports analyst Trish Johnson captured the mood best, calling Hull’s forced exit “gutting” given how entertaining and competitive she’s been. “This golf course, if she drives the ball well, she can eat it up,” Johnson noted, echoing a sentiment felt widely by fans who relish Hull’s aggressive style.
The Human Cost of a Packed Schedule
Beyond the immediate disappointment, Hull’s plight also casts a light on the intense demands faced by elite golfers — especially during the crowded summer swing of majors and high-stakes events. The LPGA calendar this time of year is relentless: after the Evian comes the ISPS HANDA Women’s Scottish Open (July 24–27) and then the AIG Women’s Open at Royal Porthcawl, one of the most prestigious trophies in the women’s game. In a sport where mental resilience and physical stamina are equally vital, a poorly timed illness can derail months of hard work and preparation.
Hull’s willingness to even attempt to play on speaks volumes about her competitive spirit — but it also raises questions about how much pressure athletes put on themselves to perform, even at the cost of their well-being. There is growing discussion across professional golf about the need for more flexible scheduling and robust player support when it comes to health, fitness, and recovery.
Looking Ahead: A Hopeful Return
Fortunately, early reports suggest that Hull’s condition is not serious enough to keep her off the course for long. She remains slated to compete at the Scottish Open later this month, where fans will hope to see her back to full strength and challenging for the title she so clearly has the talent to win. With her powerful game and recent consistency, Hull remains a serious threat for the AIG Women’s Open as well, assuming her recovery stays on track.
In a sport where so much is out of the player’s control — from the weather to the bounce of a golf ball — Hull’s withdrawal is a reminder that human vulnerability is sometimes the greatest hazard of all. For fans, it’s also a chance to reflect on just how much athletes sacrifice behind the scenes. The images of Hull being sheltered under an umbrella by her caddie before bravely hitting her final tee shot will linger as a testament to her grit — and a call for all involved in the game to prioritize player welfare alongside sporting glory.
Follow us — @undraftedus
A better brand, built by Vaughn & Co. ©