Charley Hull opened the Walmart NW Arkansas Championship presented by P&G with a 6-under 65, firing seven birdies against a single bogey to sit tied for third, two shots off the lead.

Efficient on the greens, Hull needed just 26 putts during Friday's opening round, tying for the fifth-fewest putts in the field. The appearance marks her first start at Pinnacle Country Club since 2022, when she also opened strong with a first-round 66.

Looking ahead to the rest of the tournament on a course known for low scoring, Hull knows keeping her momentum will depend on staying sharp on the greens.

"You got to keep the putter hot," Hull said. "Just go out there and enjoy it. Loads of birdie opportunities and just go out and have some fun."

Hull’s fast start in Northwest Arkansas continues a steady 2026 campaign in which she has made 10 of 14 cuts and recorded four top-10 finishes. Her season highlights include a runner-up finish at the U.S. Women’s Open presented by Ally, a tie for sixth at the AIG Women’s Open, and top-10 finishes at both The Chevron Championship (T10) and the HSBC Women’s World Championship (T10).

The impressive round came despite a rocky buildup that nearly kept the English star from teeing off.

"Last week at home I didn't hit a golf ball for like five days because I was bed-bound I was so poorly," Hull said. "After the Solheim Cup I had the flu, I had sickness and everything, and I nearly pulled out of this week because I felt like I wasn't prepared enough."

After traveling to the U.S. on Saturday and fulfilling sponsor commitments through Tuesday, she arrived on site late Tuesday night.

"So it wasn't really the best prep, but actually I come in here with no expectations and felt like I hit it pretty well tee-to-green and putted decent," said Hull, a three-time LPGA Tour winner.

Beyond her performance on the course, Hull noted that the unique environment in Rogers makes the tournament a favorite stop on tour.

"It's really cool," Hull said. "In America coming from England I feel like it's quite spread out and I don't get that villagy-towny feel. Here I feel like the whole community gets into it."

Charley Hull Shoots 65, Sits Two Off Lead in Arkansas After First Round

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