SHOCKING SCANDAL ROCKS WOMEN’S GOLF: Jeeno Thitikul Accuses Charley Hull of Bribing Referee at Kroger Queen City Championship 2025, LPGA Investigation Stuns All

The LPGA Tour’s Kroger Queen City Championship 2025 has been plunged into chaos following a bombshell accusation from rising star Jeeno Thitikul. The Thai golfer publicly accused Charley Hull, the tournament’s champion, of bribing a referee to secure a controversial winning advantage. Thitikul’s explosive claim, “She needs to be banned!” sparked outrage, prompting an immediate LPGA investigation that delivered shocking results, leaving Thitikul speechless and the golf world divided.

A Fiery Accusation Ignites Controversy

Moments after Charley Hull clinched her second LPGA title of the season at TPC River’s Bend, finishing at 20-under par to edge out Thitikul by a single stroke, the post-tournament press conference took a dramatic turn. Jeeno Thitikul, visibly furious, accused Hull of manipulating the outcome through illicit means. “She needs to be banned!” Thitikul declared, her voice trembling with conviction. “Charley bribed the referee to get favorable rulings. This isn’t fair—it’s a betrayal of golf!”

Thitikul’s allegations centered on two pivotal moments in the final round: a questionable drop ruling on the par-4 12th hole, where Hull avoided a penalty after her ball landed near a hazard, and a bunker shot on the par-5 16th, which Thitikul claimed was illegally adjusted. “The referee ignored clear violations,” Thitikul insisted, alleging that Hull’s team had offered financial incentives to influence decisions. The accusation, broadcast live on Golf Channel, sent shockwaves through the Cincinnati crowd, with boos and murmurs erupting as social media exploded under hashtags like #HullScandal and #QueenCityControversy.

LPGA Launches Urgent Investigation

The LPGA Tour, under intense scrutiny, responded swiftly by launching an emergency investigation within hours of Thitikul’s outburst. A special committee, including LPGA officials, rules experts, and independent auditors, was assembled to review video footage, referee communications, and financial records related to Hull’s team. The golf community waited anxiously as speculation swirled about potential consequences, ranging from fines to suspensions or even the revocation of Hull’s title and $300,000 prize.

The investigation focused on the specific incidents Thitikul highlighted: the drop on the 12th, where Hull received relief after a lengthy discussion with the referee, and the bunker shot on the 16th, which secured a crucial birdie. Investigators pored over multi-angle video replays, interviewed on-course officials, and examined any evidence of improper conduct. The process was described as “ exhaustive” by an LPGA spokesperson, with the organization determined to uphold the integrity of the game.

Shocking Results Leave Thitikul Speechless

On September 17, 2025, the LPGA released its findings in a stunning statement that silenced doubters and shifted the narrative. The investigation found no evidence of bribery or misconduct by Charley Hull or her team. “After a comprehensive review of all available evidence, including video footage, referee logs, and financial records, the LPGA Tour confirms that Charley Hull’s actions during the 2025 Kroger Queen City Championship were fully compliant with the Rules of Golf,” the statement read. “No improper influence or financial transactions involving officials were detected.”

The report clarified that the rulings on the 12th and 16th holes were consistent with USGA and LPGA guidelines, supported by clear video evidence and corroborated by multiple officials. The drop on the 12th was deemed lawful due to an obstruction near the hazard, and the bunker shot on the 16th involved no illegal adjustments. In a surprising revelation, the investigation suggested that Thitikul’s accusations may have stemmed from a misinterpretation of a heated rules discussion on the 12th, where Hull’s caddie sought clarification but no favors were granted.

Jeeno Thitikul, who had been vocal in her demand for justice, was reportedly “speechless” upon learning the results. Sources close to the 22-year-old star described her as “stunned” and “reflective,” grappling with the investigation’s unequivocal findings. In a brief statement issued later that day, Thitikul said, “I spoke from what I believed I saw. I respect the LPGA’s process and will focus on my golf moving forward.”

Fallout and Polarized Reactions

The golf world remains deeply divided in the wake of the investigation. Hull’s supporters celebrated her exoneration, praising her resilience under pressure. “Charley’s a class act and a true champion,” tweeted fellow LPGA star Nelly Korda. “These accusations were unfair, and she’s proven her integrity.” Others, however, expressed empathy for Thitikul, arguing that her accusations reflected a genuine concern for fairness. “Jeeno’s young and passionate,” wrote one X user. “She spoke up for what she thought was right, even if she got it wrong.”

The scandal has sparked broader discussions about officiating transparency in women’s golf. Analysts, including ESPN’s Judy Rankin, called for enhanced use of technology, such as real-time video reviews, to prevent future controversies. “This situation shows how quickly trust can erode,” Rankin noted. “Clearer processes could protect players and officials alike.”

A Test for Team Europe

The timing of the controversy poses challenges for Team Europe as they prepare for the 2025 Solheim Cup, set to begin September 26 in Virginia. Hull, a key player for the European team, now faces questions about her leadership under pressure, while Thitikul’s accusations have drawn criticism from some teammates who fear the incident could disrupt team unity. Captain Suzann Pettersen has reportedly scheduled a private meeting to address any lingering tension. “Charley’s cleared, but this kind of drama doesn’t vanish overnight,” said Golf Channel’s Karen Stupples. “The Solheim Cup will test their focus.”

Hull addressed the media after the investigation, maintaining her trademark composure. “I play golf to compete and win fairly,” she said, her voice firm. “I’m grateful for the LPGA’s thorough process and ready to move forward.” When asked about Thitikul’s accusations, Hull offered a diplomatic nod: “Jeeno’s a fierce competitor. We’ll settle it on the course.”

A Sport Under Scrutiny

The Kroger Queen City Championship scandal has thrust women’s golf into an uncomfortable spotlight, with mainstream media amplifying the story and fueling debates about sportsmanship and accountability. On X, reactions range from staunch defenses of Hull to calls for Thitikul to issue a public apology. The LPGA has pledged to review its officiating protocols to prevent similar disputes, though specific changes remain under discussion.

As the dust settles in Cincinnati, Charley Hull’s victory, once a moment of triumph, is now overshadowed by a controversy that tested her reputation. Jeeno Thitikul’s accusation—“She needs to be banned”—has left an indelible mark on the 2025 season, raising questions about trust, fairness, and the pressures of professional golf. With the Solheim Cup looming, the golf world waits to see how this drama will shape the sport’s future.