Lexi Thompson Announces Retirement from Professional Golf at 29

Lexi Thompson, the 11-time LPGA Tour** champion**, has shared that she will be retiring from professional golf in 2024. At 29 years old, she is ending her successful career. She made this announcement on Tuesday.

Ahead of her 18th consecutive US Women's Open appearance this week, Lexi Thompson revealed her decision. It has been 17 years since she first made a name for herself in the golf world. At just 12 years old, she became the youngest player to qualify for the tournament at that time.

Thompson turned professional in 2010 and achieved major success at the 2014 Kraft Nabisco Championship, now known as the Chevron Championship. She proudly represented Team USA at six Solheim Cups and two Olympic Games.

Thompson shared a heartfelt letter on Instagram, expressing that although it is difficult to bid farewell, the time has come for her to move on.

I'm excited for the rest of the year because I still have goals to achieve. I can't wait for the next chapter of my life, spending time with family, friends, and my loyal dog, Leo.

I will continue to find ways to give back to the sport and motivate the future generation of golfers. And of course, I'm excited to have some time for myself.

Thompson became the youngest to ever compete at the US Women's Open in 2007.

Thompson became the youngest to ever compete at the US Women's Open in 2007.

Thompson, once ranked as high as world No.4, achieved success with multiple titles. However, injuries caused her ranking to decline gradually to world No. 54. Despite not winning on the LPGA Tour since June 2019, she did secure an individual title at the Aramco Team Series in October 2022, which is a Ladies European Tour (LET) event.

Thompson came close to adding to her sole major crown, finishing eight times inside the top-three at the five flagship events. One infamous near-miss occurred at the 2017 ANA Inspiration (now Chevron Championship).

During the third round, Thompson was penalized four shots for a rules violation after a TV viewer reported her for mismarking her ball. Despite rallying to make a playoff, she was ultimately defeated by South Korea’s Ryu So-yeon.

Thompson expressed gratitude for the opportunities provided by the recipient, acknowledging the challenges faced. Despite the difficulties, she found motivation in being able to inspire others and make a positive difference in the world. This drive fueled her to continuously strive for improvement.

Thompson is drenched after winning her first major in 2014.

Thompson is drenched after winning her first major in 2014.

Stephen Dunn/Getty Images

‘A whirlwind of constant attention, scrutiny and pressure’

Thompson became emotional as she addressed the press at the Lancaster Country Club in Pennsylvania, the host of the US Women's Open, on Tuesday.

In her statement, she opened up about the challenges she has faced since gaining fame at the young age of 12. Thompson shared how the constant attention, scrutiny, and pressure have taken a toll on her, especially with the added impact of social media. She admitted that it has been difficult for her to always appear happy on the outside while dealing with internal struggles.

Thompson was asked what she was most proud of overcoming in her career. She became emotional and replied, “Just staying true to myself. Being out here can be tough. It can feel isolating.

She continued, “I don't want anyone to feel sorry for me. I love what I do. I give my best effort every day. We're not flawless. We're all human. Hurtful words can be difficult to overcome at times.

Having the love and support of the people around me has been the most important thing in my life. Even though I don't have a large group of friends, having those who truly care about me by my side has helped me get through tough times.

Thompson in action at the 2017 Solheim Cup.

Thompson in action at the 2017 Solheim Cup.

David Cannon/Getty Images

In October, Thompson made history as the seventh woman to play in a PGA Tour event at the Shriners Open. Although she shot even-par, she narrowly missed the cut.

Earlier this year, she and Rose Zhang became the first women to participate in The Match, facing off against PGA Tour pros Rory McIlroy and Max Homa.

Thompson expressed her gratitude to all the girls who have supported her, stating that they have been her inspiration, encouragement, and source of strength.

She acknowledged that on challenging days when she felt like giving up, the support from these girls motivated her to push through and continue competing.

Thompson answered questions on her retirement Tuesday.

Thompson answered questions on her retirement Tuesday.

Matt Rourke/AP

‘An inspirational player on and off the course’

Fellow players, including world No. 1 Nelly Korda, shared their tributes following Thompson’s announcement. Korda, who is aiming for her seventh win in eight starts at the US Women’s Open tournament, praised Thompson’s remarkable career during a press conference on Tuesday.

Nelly Korda from the United States proudly holds the champion's trophy at the Mizuho Americas Open, which took place at the Liberty National Golf Club in Jersey City, New Jersey on May 19, 2024.

Nelly Korda of the United States poses with the winner’s trophy after winning the Mizuho Americas Open at Liberty National Golf Club on May 19, 2024 in Jersey City, New Jersey.

Sarah Stier/Getty Images

Related article

Nelly Korda continues to shine on the LPGA tour with her recent victory, marking her 6th win in the last 7 starts. Many admire her dedication to the sport and her efforts to engage with fans at Pro-Am events.

As one player expressed, Nelly's commitment to growing the game is truly commendable. While it's bittersweet to see her leave the tour, she is embarking on a new chapter in her life. Her impact on the sport has been significant, and we all wish her the best in her future endeavors.

Reigning US Women’s Open champion Allisen Corpuz, who is also American, expressed her admiration for Michelle Wie. Despite being close in age, Corpuz has looked up to Wie and watched her play in numerous U.S. Opens, witnessing her victories.

Corpuz described Wie as an inspirational player, both on and off the course. She highlighted Wie's presence at Pro-Am parties and her willingness to participate in various activities. Corpuz acknowledged the positive impact Wie has had on the Tour and expressed her best wishes for Wie's future endeavors.

LPGA legends Michelle Wie West and Annika Sörenstam, along with 15-time winner Suzann Pettersen, left comments on Thompson's Instagram video. Pettersen expressed gratitude for the battles, laughs, and fairways they shared, and wished Thompson well in her life after golf.

Editor's P/S:

Lexi Thompson's retirement from professional golf marks the end of an era for the LPGA Tour. The 11-time champion has been a force on the circuit since her amateur days, and her departure will leave a void in the sport. Thompson's decision to retire at the relatively young age of 29 is a reminder of the intense pressure and scrutiny that female athletes face. She has spoken openly about the toll that the constant attention and criticism has taken on her mental health, and her decision to step away from the game is a brave one.

Thompson's legacy will be as a fierce competitor and a role model for young golfers. She has always played with passion and determination, and she has never been afraid to stand up for what she believes in. She is a true champion, and she will be missed by fans and fellow players alike.