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Charley Hull and Nelly Korda Set for Tense Finale at The ANNIKA

In a thrilling lead-up to the final round of The ANNIKA, Charley Hull is just one stroke ahead of world No. 1 Nelly Korda. Hull showcased her skill on the greens through a solid performance, finishing her second round at four under par while maintaining a narrow lead over Korda, who previously suffered a significant defeat to Hull at September’s Solheim Cup.

Through the first 36 holes at Belleair, Hull initially seemed in firm control with a two-shot cushion. However, on Saturday, Korda made strides to cut down the deficit, recovering from an early double bogey. She finished her round with a three-under 67, featuring six birdies but also a hiccup at the final hole that brought her score to 11 under for the tournament.

Hull, on the other hand, had an eventful round, including a bogey on her last hole. Her score of two-under 68 also included key birdies and setbacks, resulting in a total of 12 under, just ahead of Korda.

Challenges of Playing in Darkness

As the rounds extended into the evening, both players expressed frustration over completing their play amidst diminishing light. Hull noted the difficulties of putting in such conditions, particularly after finding the water on her final hole. She remarked, “My putt, I could barely see the hole. I couldn’t see the break or anything.”

Korda echoed her sentiments, critiquing the scheduling that led to late finishes, stating, “It’s kind of hard when you don’t really see. I think it was a little bit of poor planning by starting so late.” She highlighted the challenge of navigating slick greens under less-than-ideal lighting.

Joining Korda at 11 under is China’s Weiwei Zhang, who delivered an impressive eight-under 62 in her round. South Korea’s Jin Hee Im and Thailand’s Wichanee Meechai are tied for fourth at nine under, while Germany’s Olivia Cowan trails just behind at eight under.

Korda Aiming for Third Title

Korda is riding a wave of momentum after a remarkable period earlier this year, where she secured six victories in seven tournaments, including a historical five consecutive wins on the LPGA Tour. A victory on Sunday would mark her third ANNIKA title, with previous wins in both 2021 and 2022.

Hull, meanwhile, is fresh off recent success, having clinched the Ladies European Tour’s Aramco Team Series in Riyadh earlier this month, marking her first title since the Volunteers of America Classic in October 2022.

Tune in for the final round of The ANNIKA, airing live on Sky Sports Golf from 7 PM on Sunday. For more coverage, get Sky Sports or stream with NOW.

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