The LPGA Tour is under increasing scrutiny as English golfer Charley Hull raises concerns about slow play, particularly highlighted during the U.S. Women’s Open. Despite recent efforts to address this issue, Hull and other players argue that the existing penalties remain insufficient to curb the lengthy rounds and delays impacting the tour’s rhythm and fan engagement.
Charley Hull Proposes Stricter Sanctions to Speed Up Gameplay
Charley Hull has been outspoken about the pace of play on the LPGA Tour, noting rounds often stretch close to six hours. She advocates for harsher penalties, including the threat of revoking tour cards for those who repeatedly violate time limits. Her stance reflects a growing impatience among players who feel slow play disrupts competitive flow and their overall experience on the course.
Incidents Highlighting the Slow Play Challenge on Tour
Hull’s frustrations were brought into sharp focus at the U.S. Women’s Open when she waited on the ninth tee due to her playing partner, Lexi Thompson, taking excessive time on the green. This episode is representative of broader pace problems that persist despite reforms introduced by the LPGA aiming to accelerate match progress.
Impact of Slow Play on Fans and Broadcasts
Golf journalist Beth Ann Nichols has documented how extended rounds have led to coverage delays, with some front nines exceeding three hours. These extended playing times have not only frustrated players but also diminished the viewing experience, causing discontent among fans who have voiced their dissatisfaction online. The slow pace threatens to undermine audience engagement and the overall appeal of women’s professional golf.
Inconsistent Enforcement of New Pace of Play Rules
Since March 2025, the LPGA introduced rules to penalize players exceeding set time limits, but enforcement has been uneven, especially during major championships where different protocols apply. These inconsistencies create loopholes that slow-playing competitors can exploit, frustrating those who seek fair and efficient competition.
Community Voices Call for Urgent Reforms
High-profile golfers such as Paige Spiranac and Lexi Thompson have echoed Hull’s concerns, emphasizing the necessity for prompt and effective solutions to the slow play dilemma. Fans and players alike warn that without decisive action, the growing reputation damage to the LPGA could erode viewership and diminish the sport’s competitive integrity.
The Road Ahead for the LPGA and Its Viewership
With the pace crisis drawing ever-more criticism, the LPGA faces mounting pressure to tighten rules and ensure consistent penalty enforcement. As fans demand faster play and a more engaging experience, the tour’s governing bodies must prioritize restoring credibility and competitiveness for players and spectators, safeguarding the future of women’s golf at its highest level.
“Despite the introduction of new policies aimed at addressing the issue, Hull believes there is still room for improvement.” —Charley Hull
“Some matches [are] taking over three hours to complete just the front nine.” —Beth Ann Nichols, Golf Journalist
“Fans have expressed their outrage on social media.” —Beth Ann Nichols, Golf Journalist
“Prominent figures in the golfing community, such as Paige Spiranac and Lexi Thompson, have also voiced their concerns about slow play.” —Beth Ann Nichols, Golf Journalist