In a heartfelt announcement that has rippled through the golfing community, Lexi Thompson has declared her intention to step back from full-time competition following the 2024 LPGA season. The news broke during a press conference ahead of this week’s U.S. Women’s Open at Lancaster Country Club, where Thompson, aged 29, shared insights into her decision.
“There’s more things to life than going to a tournament every week and doing the same training every day,” Thompson revealed. “There’s just more to it, and I’m looking forward to experiencing that. I feel like I’m very content with where my life is and where this decision will lead me. I’m just looking forward to what life has in store other than golf.”
This statement encapsulates a turning point in Thompson’s illustrious career, one that has seen her compete at the highest levels of golf since she turned professional in 2010. Her career highlights include 15 international wins and a major victory at the 2014 Chevron Championship. Despite her success, Thompson has not secured a win on the LPGA Tour since 2019, via ESPN.
The timing of Thompson’s announcement adds a poignant layer to her 18th consecutive participation in the U.S. Women’s Open. Starting her journey in this prestigious event at just 12 years old in 2007, she became the youngest golfer ever to qualify at the time. Over the years, Thompson’s presence in the sport has grown significantly, marked by her spirited engagement and undeniable impact on and off the green.
LPGA Commissioner Mollie Marcoux Samaan praised Thompson’s profound influence: “While these achievements are remarkable in and of themselves, Lexi’s impact extends far beyond the golf course,” Marcoux Samaan stated. “She embodies the spirit and dedication of our founders – always showing up and engaging intentionally to help further the growth and impact of the LPGA. She is beloved by fans, consistently seen signing autographs and interacting with them no matter the result that day. … Lexi’s remarkable career and the way she has conducted herself both on and off the course have inspired countless girls around the world to pursue their goals with passion and perseverance.”
On a personal note, Thompson shared a video on Instagram earlier on Tuesday expressing her excitement to spend more time with loved ones, including her dog, Leo. She disclosed that the decision to retire has been in consideration for a few months, indicating a thoughtful approach to her career transition.
Looking forward, Thompson remains open about her plans, noting she will evaluate her participation in future tournaments on a part-time basis. “I’m taking it day by day right now,” she said. “I’m not going to say yes or no on how many events I’ll play or if I do. I’m just going to take it day by day and see how I feel, especially going into next year. But I’m very content with this being my last full-time schedule year.”
As Thompson prepares for her upcoming performances at the U.S. Women’s Open, the golf world watches with admiration and anticipation, celebrating a career that has been as inspiring as it has been successful.