AIG Women’s Open preview: Royal Lytham & St Annes return brings happy memories for 2018 winner Georgia Hall

Georgia Hall is excited to be back on the Fylde coast as she returns to the scene of her Women’s Open triumph eight years ago.

Hall won the 2018 tournament the last time it was played at Royal Lytham & St Annes, finishing two shots ahead of Pornanong Phatlum.

She also makes the journey back to the Fylde coast links, five months after giving birth to son Conor, to play in the 50th staging of the tournament.

Speaking on Wednesday, Hall said: “It was really cool to drive in on Monday, and it gave me goosebumps.

“It was so nice of a feeling to be back here, seeing all the spectators already today.

“Really excited for this week, so hopefully it will be a good week.

“Even playing in the practice rounds I see the shots I hit in certain positions. I remember every pin position, so that was really good.

“My body is improving every month, definitely, and I’m playing pretty decent, but I think it’s more having a card in your hand and being in those pressure situations and getting used to that again.

“This event is obviously one of the reasons I play golf. This is the highlight of my year.”

Having returned to golf months after becoming a mother inevitably brings a comparison to Catriona Matthew.

She famously won the 2009 Women’s Open at RL&SA, just 11 weeks after the arrival of her second child.

Hall said: “I just spoke to her and I said ‘I really don't know how you’ve done it. You couldn't dream of doing that. I couldn't.’

She said ‘oh, it’s a lot easier with the second.’ It’s just amazing.

“She’s such a role model to look up to as well and gives great advice.

“Obviously such a great player and captain as well, so it’s nice to see her here this week.”

Hall has been grouped with Hinako Shibuno and Valentine Delon, a group which tees off at 12.42pm on Thursday.

She admits that the memories of walking up the final fairway eight years ago still burn brightly.

“I just remember everyone standing up on the grandstands and cheering my name,” she remembered.

“Obviously walking down there with a three-shot lead made it a bit more enjoyable.

“For it to be in England as well was extra special and to have that support, it was my rookie year then on the LPGA so it was a highlight of my career.

“You don’t really realise the impact it has on you until months after. That’s advice I would give to myself if I won again.”