Lexi Thompson, a 29-year-old golfer, has confirmed via the USGA that she plans to retire at the end of the 2024 LPGA Tour season. Her decision came as a surprise to many, considering Thompson is only 29 years old, and many expected her to build her career on this Tour and in the future.
However, Thompson obviously had reasons for making such a decision.
Her career has had an interesting trajectory, as she appeared at the US Women’s Open at the age of just 12. Since then, 17 years have passed.
Lexi Thompson, who qualified at age 12 for the U.S. Womens Open, chats with the media prior to the start of the U.S. Womens Open© Scott Halleran/Getty Images Sport
Three years later, this brilliant golfer began her professional career at the age of 15, and her first victory came a year later (in 2011). Already then, many anticipated that Thompson would build a great career and become a respected name in the world of golf. The LPGA had to change its rules regarding age, primarily for her but also for others, to secure her a full card, which ensured her victories three more times.
Looking at her successes at the Majors, she has only managed to win one Major, the Chevron Championship in 2014. Looking at the Women’s British Open, she was not particularly successful, as her best result was T8 in 2016. Thompson came very close at all three other Majors, including the Women’s PGA Championship, where she finished T2 in 2022. The same situation occurred at the US Women’s Open with her best score being T2 in 2019. And ultimately, the 29-year-old golfer finished 2nd at the Evian Championship in 2015.
It must be admitted that at many points during her career, Thompson was unlucky, and she certainly could have achieved more. However, her career is still respectable, as she has achieved 11 victories on the LPGA Tour, 2 victories on the Ladies European Tour, and 1 victory on the LPGA of Japan Tour.
As a junior, Thompson was also successful, winning the U.S. Girls’ Junior Championship in 2008. As a teenager, she made great achievements and caused shock among golf fans. She had the opportunity to represent her country, the US, at the Solheim Cup six times.
USGA statement: Whatever is next for Thompson, whether or not it includes golf, she has a legion of followers
The USGA emphasized in its statement that Lexi’s aggressiveness and playing style are reasons why many golf fans worldwide respect her. Additionally, her charisma, openness, and passion for golf are other reasons why Thompson has gained huge sympathies among fans of this sport.
Lexi Thompson© Sam Hodde / Getty Images Sport
Thompson’s decision is still not definitive, as there is a chance that she may potentially change her mind. However, the leaders of the USGA wish her luck regardless of the path she chooses. The girl who started her career as a young girl and sparked the interest of many in women’s golf has decided to potentially leave this game. Nevertheless, her playing style and character will remain memorable, whatever happens.
“Lexi’s aggressive, powerful style of play earned her the respect of millions of fans, but it was the gracious way she treated those fans that won their love.
Whatever is next for Thompson, whether or not it includes golf, she has a legion of followers who will be rooting her on. The one-time child star walks away from competitive golf just as she entered the game, with her head held high over her 6-foot frame, striding the golf course golf very much on her own terms and in her own style.”- USGA wrote.
Lexi Thompson could reveal the reasons for retirement
It is expected that this 29-year-old golfer will announce her decision tomorrow and potentially reveal the reasons why she will end her career. Some speculate that the potential reason could be the fact that Thompson entered this profession too early and has been part of the big scene for years. When you enter a sport as a young person and face all the challenges, sometimes it can ‘consume’ you after a few years.
However, Thompson has always done what she knew best, believing in herself and her successes. She has always provided golf fans with what they wanted from her. Lexi is the reason why many girls have embarked on the same path, which can be her main satisfaction after ending her professional career.
Thompson wasn’t particularly successful this season, considering that the Ford Championship played in late March this year was her only positive result, where she finished T3. At times, it seemed like Thompson was tired of playing golf, but we’ll see what happens next. We wish her luck and success regardless of the decision she makes. For years, she has brought joy to the women’s golf scene.
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