Georgia Hall makes emotional return to Royal Lytham & St Annes for AIG Women’s Open following birth of son
2018 Champion returns to scene of greatest triumph just five months postpartum with newborn son Conor watching on
Lancashire, England - England’s Georgia Hall returns to the scene of her greatest career achievement this week at Royal Lytham & St Annes, marking her Major championship comeback at the AIG Women’s Open just five months after welcoming her first child, Conor, in February.
Hall lifted the Claret Jug at Royal Lytham in 2018 for her maiden Major title, winning by two strokes on home soil. Returning to the famed Lancashire links layout this week with her family in tow, the 30-year-old admitted driving into the venue brought back fond memories and goosebumps.
“It gives me goosebumps. It was such a nice feeling to be back here, and a happy atmosphere seeing all the spectators,” Hall reflected. “It brings me a lot of confidence coming back here, and even playing in the practice rounds I see the shots I hit in certain positions. I remember every pin position. This event is the highlight of my year, and to have that support in England is extra special.”
Hall’s road back to competitive golf began just six weeks after giving birth, working through a gradual rehabilitation program alongside physical training and swing adjustments before sharpening her game at select Ladies European Tour events.
“I first picked up a club six weeks after giving birth at a local driving range,” said Hall, who sought advice from two-time AIG Women’s Open champion Catriona Matthew on navigating motherhood while competing on tour. “My rotation was pretty limited at first, but I enjoyed the progress. A lot of it was rehab and physical work, but I always had Lytham in mind. I didn’t want to miss this event.”
Supported by her parents and partner Paul, Hall has balanced final preparations with family life ahead of Thursday’s opening round. “I had a picture with Conor on the 18th green, and that will definitely be my screensaver,” she added. “To have my whole life there with Paul... I’m just really grateful that I made it back here and everything went well enough to allow me to play.”