Lexi Thompson reveals when she’ll give up pro golf completely, and it might be sooner than you think
Published: Last updated:
Lexi Thompson, the youngest golfer ever to qualify and play in the U.S. Women’s Open, revealed the point at which she will no longer play professional golf.
Back in May this year, the golfing world was shocked by the announcement that Lexi Thompson was retiring from full-time professional golf before the age of 30.
Thompson burst onto the golf scene at just 12 years old, becoming the youngest qualifier in the history of the US Women’s Open in 2007. This early achievement marked the beginning of a remarkable career that saw her turn professional in 2010. After impressive performances at the Women’s Australian Open and the Kraft Nabisco Championship, at age sixteen Thompson petitioned the LPGA to allow her into qualifying school and waive the rule that entrants must be at least eighteen years old. She also made waves on the international stage as an undefeated member of the United States team in the Curtis Cup.
In 2011, Thompson made history again by becoming the youngest-ever winner on the LPGA Tour, clinching the Navistar LPGA Classic at just 16 years old. That same year, she secured her first victory on the Ladies European Tour at the Dubai Ladies Masters, further establishing herself as a rising star in women’s golf.
Throughout her career, Thompson has amassed 11 LPGA Tour victories, including a major championship win at the Kraft Nabisco (now called the Chevron Championship) in 2014. Known for her powerful driving and competitive spirit, she has consistently been a top contender in the world of women’s golf, representing the United States in multiple Solheim Cups and earning numerous other accolades.
However, her career has not been without challenges. In recent years, Thompson has struggled with a persistent wrist injury and mental health issues, which she has openly discussed. Despite these difficulties, she continued to compete at a high level, but in 2024, she announced her decision to retire at the end of the LPGA Tour season, citing her health and emotional well-being.
Speaking to the media ahead of the 2024 AIG Women’s Open Championship at St Andrews, not long after Olympic gold medalist Lydia Ko addressed her own retirement rumors, it was clear that the decision to take a step back from full-time professional golf was the right one for her.
“I think overall there is a little less weight on my shoulders after the announcement because it has been on my mind for a few years, so it’s something that’s been inside that nobody really knew about or what was going to happen.
“But all of us players, we have our own battles. Everybody does. Everybody has their things they go through and how they deal with them. But everybody deserves to do whatever makes them the happiest.”
Thompson also spoke about the desire to represent her country at the Solheim Cup in Virginia next month. As things stand, she either needs to qualify via points earned or be one of Stacy Lewis’ ‘Captain’s Picks’.
“Anytime I can represent my country, it’s my No. 1 goal to be on this team. That’s nothing like it. I feel like it brings out an energy and talent from all of us players that fans don’t see every week. I think they really enjoy it. You’re not only playing for yourself. Golf is such an individual sport. We get the opportunity to bring 12 girls together, build those friendships and relationships, play under our captain that we look up to. It’s something different. It’s special.”
Her final revelation came when she was asked what her plans are when she does give up her full-time golf schedule. Alongside traveling, and playing for fun in events across the globe, she really wants to settle down and start a family.
“I want to be able to travel and not play golf, so to be able to sightsee and do all the touristy things. Definitely looking forward to that. I’ll be 30 next year, so settle down, get married, have a family. That’s my No. 1 priority.”
But would having a family stop Thompson from playing golf completely?
“No, it would be something I would do for fun because I think golf is such an amazing game for bringing families together, bringing people together and building those relationships. I think it’s super important. So no, it’s not something I would just stop. Family wouldn’t stop that.
“I don’t plan on having a family and playing professional golf.”
It looks like Lexi Thompson’s complete retirement from professional golf is in sight, and it marks the end of a significant chapter in women’s golf. Her early achievements and lasting impact on the sport have made her one of the most influential players of her generation, and her legacy will continue to inspire future golfers.
About the author
Sarah Pyett – Deputy Digital Editor
Sarah Pyett is the Deputy Digital Editor of todays-golfer.com. She plays off a handicap of 4, and specializes in ladies’ equipment reviews, including drivers, irons, and golf balls.
After a career in a golf professional shop, and earning a qualification in golf club management, Sarah joined Bauer in 2014 as a Web Producer for Today’s Golfer. She has since worked across multiple brands in a mixture of digital marketing and paid media roles, before returning to focus on golf full-time as Deputy Digital Editor in 2024.
-
Lexi Thompson has revealed when she'll retire from professional golf completely
