Charley Hull turns heads at Trump's Windsor Castle state banquet
LPGA star Charley Hull attends the Windsor Castle banquet for Donald Trump's U.K. visit, fresh off a tour win, as royal and American dignitaries gather for the event.
Charley Hull, the glamorous LPGA star, drew attention at Windsor Castle on Wednesday as she attended the state banquet for Donald Trump's visit to the United Kingdom. Hull, who recently won the Kroger Queen City Championship, joined about 160 guests for the evening hosted by King Charles and Queen Camilla.
She was among the attendees alongside U.S. President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, Tiffany Trump and her husband Michael Boulos. Golf legend Nick Faldo and his wife Lindsay De Marco were also present as Windsor Castle welcomed guests for the high-profile dinner.
Hull posted a glamorous image to Instagram showing her in a gold halter-neck gown, complemented by diamond studs and an intricate up-do, as she marked the occasion in a royal setting.
Hull's remarks about Trump were reported by Fox News and later shared by Trump on Truth Social, noting that she admires Trump and believes he is brilliant.
Hull has long been seen as a rising star, competing in Solheim Cup 2023 and the Curtis Cup as a teen, and turning professional before her 17th birthday.
British golf great Sir Nick Faldo, a six-time major winner, attended with his wife Lindsay De Marco. Faldo was appointed an MBE in 1988 and knighted as a Knight Bachelor in 2009 at Windsor Castle.
King Charles, in a toast, spoke of Britain's 'remarkable bond' with the United States and the 'unparalleled partnership' that underpins the two nations, while acknowledging the ongoing security challenges facing Europe.
Trump's relationship with the LPGA has drawn scrutiny: the tour canceled a 2022 event at a Trump course in the wake of the January 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol, a decision cited by several players and officials at the time. Natalie Gulbis, a former LPGA player, described Trump's engagement with sponsorship and advocacy on equal pay as part of a complex dynamic between sport and politics.
Hull's Windsor appearance comes on the heels of her Kroger Queen City Championship win, underscoring her rising profile on the circuit and her ability to bring broader attention to an event that blends sport and diplomacy.
The banquet, as a snapshot of the enduring U.K.–U.S. partnership, highlighted the prominent role that athletes and sports icons sometimes play in high-profile political and diplomatic moments, even as organizers navigate the sensitivities of public opinion and international politics.