Staff WriterThe Lone Star State is about to get a little brighter. The Aramco Houston Championship rolls into Golfcrest Country Club from September 5–7, 2025, with three of Europe’s finest—Charley Hull, Céline Boutier, and Carlota Ciganda—headlining a field that looks more dangerous than a rattlesnake in cowboy boots.
This fourth stop on the PIF Global Series has quickly grown into one of the most talked-about fixtures on the Ladies European Tour, and the trio sat down this week to talk golf, injuries, heat, and even the small matter of the Solheim Cup.
Hull back from the treatment table
Charley Hull hasn’t teed it up in four weeks after a torn ankle ligament forced her off the fairways and into rehab. Yet she arrived in Houston sounding more impatient than rusty.
“I’m really looking forward to it,” Hull said. “It’s my first event back in about four weeks. I just can’t wait to get out on the course and play.”
She admitted the recovery was no picnic. “Yeah, I completely tore a ligament in my ankle, so I didn’t hit any balls for two weeks. The doctors said it could be nine weeks before I’d be back, but it’s only been four. I’ve been doing all my rehab, and while I’m not expecting too much this week, it feels good to be back out here.”
Hull walked the entire course during practice and gave her verdict in classic Hull fashion: “I played all 18. It was a bit soggy early on, but not too bad. The course itself is in great shape, so I’m looking forward to getting started.”
Boutier riding a wave of consistency
Céline Boutier, France’s steely-eyed assassin, has been stringing together strong finishes like pearls on a necklace. For her, the key has been boringly efficient golf.
“My long game has been really solid, which has given me a lot of birdie chances,” she said. “I haven’t needed to scramble too much, which helps with consistency.”
She knows the Texas humidity will test stamina as much as swing tempo, but she was upbeat. “I’m feeling good. The weather’s hot and humid, which will be a challenge, but the course is in really nice condition considering the rain they’ve had. I think it will be a good test, and I’m excited to get started.”
On the PIF Global Series itself, Boutier was clear: “I think it’s been a great initiative. The team format is fun and different, and it’s good for us to compete around the world. It pushes everyone to perform, and it’s really positive for women’s golf.”
Ciganda’s global outlook
Carlota Ciganda has played everywhere from Solheim Cups to the deserts of Dubai, but Houston still excites her.
“I’m very happy to be here,” she said. “I think the course has improved a lot since the start of the week, and it will be a really good test. I love playing worldwide, and this team format is always fun for us as Europeans.”
She was even more effusive about the Series itself: “Honestly, it’s amazing. Without their support, the Ladies European Tour wouldn’t be where it is now. They’ve given us so many opportunities to play around the world, and what they’re doing for women’s golf is unbelievable. I feel lucky to be part of it.”
As for her team pick this week? “She’s a good friend, and we’ve known each other for years. She also played really well in London, so I thought it would be great to team up with her,” Ciganda said of Sara Kjellker.
Eyes on the Solheim? Not yet
With next year marking the return of the Solheim Cup, the media couldn’t resist poking the bear. None of the three were biting.
Ciganda shrugged: “Not really, to be honest. It’s one of my favourite events, but I don’t think much about it when it’s not Solheim year.”
Boutier echoed the sentiment: “I know it’s coming, and it’s something to look forward to, but right now my focus is on this season.”
And Hull? Ever the straight shooter: “I’m not really thinking about it either. To be honest, I don’t even watch much golf on TV outside of the majors and the Women’s Open.”
A proper test awaits
All three players agreed that Golfcrest will demand precision off the tee, particularly on doglegs where accuracy trumps length.
Boutier believes her current form suits the challenge, while Ciganda, who has already tasted victory in this format, declared: “Every win gives you confidence, but it’s always a new week. I really like this course – it’s a true ball-striker’s course with lots of variety. I think the best player will definitely win here.”
Tickets and details
Tickets for the Aramco Houston Championship start at $15 for Friday, $20 for Saturday and Sunday, or $50 for a full weekend pass.
For schedules, results, and more on the PIF Global Series, visit www.pifglobalseries.com.
