POOLE-BORN Hayley Davis hopes her debut in this week’s US Women’s Open will be “just the first of many” appearances in majors.

Davis will compete in one of the sport’s five annual majors for the first time when she tees it up at Charleston Country Club, having held her nerve to come through a play-off in a qualifying event at Buckinghamshire Golf Club.

The 26-year-old will now get the chance to compete against the world’s best in a 156-player field at the 74th US Open.

She tees off from the 10th on Thursday alongside Supamas Sangchan and Ty Akabane (12.11pm UK time).

The field will compete for a share of the $5.5million purse, with $1million going to the winner.

Asked if she had anticipated to make her major debut sooner, Davis told the Daily Echo: “Yes, it would’ve been nice but at least it’s come now.

“Hopefully this is just the first of many.

“I’m looking forward to it. I’m looking forward to getting out there, getting some good practice in and just getting started.

“It’s funny because I always wanted to get in the British Open. That was what I thought would be the first one for me. But getting into the US Open is big.”

Davis began her golfing journey aged just nine when her grandad took her to play at the now-closed Canford Magna course, before she joined Ferndown Golf Club as a member two years later - where she remains affiliated today.

Having lived in America when first turning pro in 2015, Davis has now returned to the UK and is back based in Ferndown, alongside competing on the LET Access Tour.

She currently sits second in that order of merit and looks well-placed to clinch a spot on the main European tour for 2020.

But first the focus is on trying to show her qualities in South Carolina this week.

Davis said: “I’m really confident in my game. I’ve been seeing my coach (Peter Thompson) quite a lot.

“I’m just trying to make sure I’m as prepared as I can be to give myself the best chance.

“Obviously I’d love to do great out there but it’s my first major, so I’m not too sure. I’d love to make the cut and then just give myself a chance at the weekend.”

She added: “For this year the goal is to try to secure that LET card because I love playing in Europe, so I can base myself at home.”

The US Open also gives Davis a chance to take on a familiar face.

Fellow Dorset star Georgia Hall is also part of the field and goes in as one of the leading names, ranked 22nd in the world following her maiden major win at last year’s Women’s British Open.

“We grew up playing together when we were younger,” said Davis.

“She’s done really well. For her to get in the Solheim Cup and then get a major is really cool - and to watch her really do what she’s good at and achieve at the highest level.

“We haven’t played in a tournament together for a while so that’ll be cool. We’ll see how it goes!”

Wimborne-based Hall is set to begin her opening round on the first, alongside Lizette Salas and Stacy Lewis (12.55pm UK time).