Lexi Thompson, aged 29, plans to retire from professional golfing by the conclusion of the 2024 season. She noted, "Playing on the course might be challenging at times. It can feel lonely."
The seasoned LPGA Tour champion, who has 11 wins to her name, shared the news ahead of her 18th straight appearances in the US Women's Open. She made history as the youngest player to qualify for the tournament when she was just 12 years old.
Thompson turned professional in 2010 and went on to win a major title in 2014 at the Kraft Nabisco Championship, now known as the Chevron Championship. Representing Team USA in six Solheim Cups and two Olympic Games, the Floridian has been a force in the sport.
She wrote a heartfelt letter on Instagram, shared with a video, saying, "It's never easy to say goodbye, but it's time." Thompson expressed excitement about the possibilities of the remaining year and what she hopes to accomplish.
Despite reaching the world No. 4 spot and winning several titles, injuries caused her ranking to drop, now being at world No. 54. She last won on the LPGA Tour in June 2019 but managed to secure an individual title at the Aramco Team Series, which is a Ladies European Tour event, in October 2022.
Though she finished within the top-3 at five flagship events, she had the unfortunate experience of almost winning her second major at the 2017 ANA Inspiration (now Chevron Championship). She received a penalty for mismarking her ball, reported by a TV viewer. Thompson went on to a playoff but lost to Ryu So-yeon.
In her letter, Thompson described her time on tour as "a whirlwind of constant attention, scrutiny and pressure." Social media sometimes made it hard for her to maintain a smile while dealing with struggles privately.
During a press conference at Pennsylvania's Lancaster Country Club on Tuesday, Thompson tearfully disclosed her decision, calling it a "whirlwind of constant attention, scrutiny and pressure" since she first made her mark at 12 years old.
When asked about what she was most proud of overcoming, she replied, "Just staying true to myself. That's what I'm most proud of - being out here can be very lonely. Some days, it's hard to maintain a smile and look positive when there are difficult situations happening. Having people around me who love me and support me got me through some tough times."
In October, she played in the PGA Tour event, the Shriners Open, missing the cut with an even-par score. In February, Thompson joined fellow American Rose Zhang as the first women to participate in The Match. She took on PGA Tour stars Rory McIlroy and Max Homa.
Her letter also mentioned all the girls who cheered for her, calling them her inspiration, motivation, and strength on tough days.
The scores of players commented and expressed their gratitude for Thompson's dedication and the impact she's had on the tour. Nelly Korda, the No. 1-ranked player in the world and US Women's Open favorite, said, "She's had such an amazing career. She spends a lot of time supporting the Tour. It's sad to see her leaving, but she's had an amazing career. I wish her the best in her next chapter."
Allisen Corpuz, US Women's Open defending champion, shared her admiration: "She's had an incredible career. I looked up to her and followed her in multiple U.S. Opens. She's an inspirational player both on and off the course. She always takes time to attend every Pro-Am party. She's truly impacted the Tour."
Acclaimed golfers Michelle Wie West and Annika Sörenstam left comments on Thompson's Instagram post. 15-time tournament winner Suzann Pettersen said: "Thank you for all the fights, laughter, and fairways we've shared! Life beyond golf is even more awesome. Enjoy the remaining stretch!"
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