LPGA star Charley Hull has revealed that at the height of her nicotine habit, she was smoking up to 40 cigarettes per day. The 29-year-old English golfer made the disclosure during a recent podcast interview, describing a period of intense stress on the tour that led to her heavy smoking. Hull, known for her unfiltered personality and occasional on-course cigarette breaks, said she decided to quit cold turkey after making a $10,000 bet with friends that she could stop for two months. She has not smoked since.
Hull's revelation drew immediate comparisons to two-time major champion John Daly, who famously smoked heavily during his own career. In 2014, Daly admitted to smoking up to 40 cigarettes per day and consuming 10 to 12 Diet Cokes, down from a peak of 26 to 28 cans daily. Daly, who continues to smoke, has long been a colorful figure in golf, known for his powerful drives and unconventional lifestyle. Hull, who has been called the female John Daly by fans and media, said her smoking was driven by stress rather than a desire to emulate the American legend.
The LPGA star's decision to quit came after a moment of clarity on the golf course. She explained that she simply decided one day to give up cigarettes, and the bet with friends provided the motivation to stay committed. The $10,000 wager, which she won, marked the end of a habit that had become a notable part of her public persona. Hull's candor about her smoking and quitting has resonated with fans, many of whom have followed her career closely as she has become one of the most recognizable figures in women's golf.
Hull's smoking habit was not just a personal quirk but a topic of discussion in the golf world. During tournaments, she was occasionally seen smoking between shots, a sight that became almost as familiar as her powerful swing. The habit drew both criticism and fascination, with some observers comparing it to Daly's own on-course smoking. However, Hull has always maintained that her smoking was a personal choice and not a statement. Her recent disclosure sheds light on the pressures professional athletes face, even as they compete at the highest levels.
The news comes as Hull continues to perform strongly on the LPGA Tour, where she has multiple wins and has represented Europe in the Solheim Cup. Her decision to quit smoking has been praised by health advocates and golf fans alike, who see it as a positive step for her long-term well-being. Hull's story also highlights the broader issue of stress and mental health in professional sports, where athletes often grapple with intense pressure and public scrutiny.
In addition to Hull's revelation, the podcast episode touched on other sports and culture topics, including the rising costs of youth travel sports. One parent reported spending over $1,000 for a weekend AAU tournament in Cincinnati, including entrance fees, parking, gas, hotel, and food. The escalating expenses have sparked debate about the financial burden on families and the sustainability of the youth sports industry. Meanwhile, MLB's decision to air the Home Run Derby on Netflix has drawn mixed reactions, with early polls suggesting that many young viewers may miss the event if they rely on social media clips rather than live broadcasts.
Hull's smoking confession, however, remains the standout story from the episode, offering a rare glimpse into the personal struggles of a top-tier athlete. Her ability to overcome a heavy habit and continue competing at an elite level serves as an inspiration to many. As she moves forward without cigarettes, Hull is likely to remain a compelling figure in golf, known as much for her resilience as for her talent on the course.