American golfer Lexi Thompson, a former major champion and two-time Olympian, will retire from full-time competitive golf following the 2024 season, the LPGA announced on Tuesday.
At 29 years old, Thompson, an 11-time winner on the LPGA Tour, is set to make her 18th consecutive start in a US Women’s Open at Lancaster Country Club in Pennsylvania on Thursday.
Final Year Goals and Reflections
In a heartfelt video posted on Instagram, Thompson shared her thoughts on stepping away from the sport. “While it is never easy to say goodbye, it is indeed time. At the end of 2024, I will be stepping away from a full professional golf schedule,” she said.
Despite her impending retirement, Thompson remains motivated for the remainder of the year. “I’m excited to enjoy the remainder of the year as there are still goals I want to accomplish. I’m looking forward to the next chapter of my life.”
A Record-Breaking Career
Thompson burst onto the golfing scene in 2007 when, at just 12 years old, she became the youngest player to qualify for the U.S. Women’s Open. This record was later broken by Lucy Li, who qualified at age 11 in 2014.
Thompson continued to set new benchmarks, becoming the youngest winner of an LPGA event at 16 when she won the 2011 Navistar Classic. In 2014, she added another milestone by becoming the second youngest woman to win an LPGA major at the Mission Hills Country Club in Rancho Mirage, California.
Accolades and Accomplishments
Throughout her illustrious career, Thompson has amassed over $14 million in earnings. Her most recent victory on the LPGA Tour was in 2019.
Beyond individual tournaments, Thompson has been a key player in team events, participating in the Solheim Cup six times and representing the United States in the 2016 and 2021 Olympic Games.
Looking Forward to New Beginnings
As she prepares for her final full season, Thompson is set on making the most of her remaining time on the tour. Her legacy in the sport is already well-established, and her departure will mark the end of an era for her fans and the golfing community.
The impact she has made through her dedication, talent, and sportsmanship will continue to inspire future generations of golfers.
