Charley Hull remains in contention at the AIG Women's Open despite facing criticism for a pre-major caddie prank. Hull tricked her caddie, Adam Woodward, into believing he had won £100,000 on a scratchcard. Despite admitting to limited sleep, Hull followed an opening-round 69 with a level-par 71, placing her two under par heading into the weekend at Royal Lytham & St Annes.

Hull defended the prank, stating that she and Woodward have a close relationship and he found the joke hilarious. She urged critics to "lighten up," emphasizing that her friends understand her sense of humor. Hull expressed that such comments motivate her to perform better, believing people need to be more resilient and less concerned with negative feedback.

Despite a sore back and only around three hours of sleep, Hull is looking forward to the weekend's play, feeling her nerves have settled and is optimistic about challenging for the major title. Live coverage continues on Sky Sports Golf.