Team GB: Looking to follow in Fleetwood's footsteps

The anticipation is building as Charley Hull and Georgia Hall prepare to represent Great Britain in the women's golf competition at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Both athletes are looking to build on their natural team spirit as best friends to drive each other forward over the four days of play at Le Golf National.

Georgia Hall: Embracing her first Olympic experience

For Georgia Hall, this marks her inaugural appearance at the Olympic Games. Speaking with enthusiasm, she shared her excitement and sense of honour at representing Great Britain. "Obviously really looking forward to it. There's a different type of mindset this week. An honour to be representing Great Britain and playing for your country. You know any time you get to do that, it's probably one of the best moments that you can have as a professional athlete," Hall expressed.

Hall has had a chance to familiarise herself with the course and believes it will offer a significant challenge to the competitors. "It's one of the best courses that I think we've played, and I think it will be a good test," she noted.

Charley Hull: A return to the Olympic field

Charley Hull, on the other hand, is no stranger to the Olympic stage. This being her second Olympic appearance, after finishing tied seventh at Rio 2106. Hull brings with her the experience of having competed under the unique pressures of the Games. Reflecting on how she is feeling about tackling Le Golf National, Hull said, "It's really good. I'm super excited to do it. Went out and saw the golf course and it was in lovely condition and excited to get out there tomorrow."

Anticipation and expectations

Both golfers acknowledge the unique atmosphere and the added pressure that comes with competing in the Olympics. With large crowds expected, potentially around 30,000 spectators, according to Hall, over the next two days, the environment is set to be electric. "Any time you get to play in front of the crowds that we are going to experience the next couple of days adds a little bit of excitement to your game," Hall added, emphasising the motivational boost that a lively audience provides.

Reflecting on Olympic and golfing greatness

The discussion also touched on the value of an Olympic medal compared to other golfing achievements. Hall shared her evolving perspective, noting how the inclusion of golf in the Olympics has shaped her goals. "Growing up, I never really even had the opportunity to have this as one of my goals because golf wasn't in the mix. I think the last few years, obviously, it's been on my mind. I wanted to get into this team and win a medal. It will be up there high or at the top for me to win a medal in general," she said.

The duo's reflections on their compatriot Tommy Fleetwood’s recent silver medal win also underscored the significance of the Olympics within the golfing community. Hull, though not able to watch live, was kept updated by friends and was impressed by Fleetwood's performance, remarking on how close he came to securing gold.

On the eve of the women's Olympic golf competition, both Hull and Hall are ready to showcase their talents on one of golf's biggest stages. With a mix of experience and fresh enthusiasm, the pair aim to make their mark and possibly bring home more Olympic glory for Great Britain on the golf course.

The round one and two tee times have been released - find out the women's Olympic golf competition tee times here. View the full women's Olympic golf competition leaderboard here.