Craving ‘Motherhood’, Lydia Ko Drops Extremely Sad Hint About LPGA Future: ‘Don’t Think I Could…’
Lydia Ko’s Emotional Hint at Retirement: Is Motherhood on the Horizon?
In a heartfelt revelation, Lydia Ko, the celebrated LPGA golfer, has shared her deep longing for motherhood and the potential impact it may have on her professional career. As she approaches her 30th birthday, the 27-year-old Kiwi star is contemplating a future beyond the greens, raising questions about her impending retirement from competitive golf.
The Next Chapter: Family Over Fairways
Ko’s thoughts were expressed during a candid interview with the New Zealand Herald, where she discussed her aspirations for starting a family with her husband, Jun Chung. She conveyed that the joy of welcoming a child would be an incredible blessing, yet it comes with the realization that balancing motherhood with the demands of competitive golf may be unfeasible. “I don’t think I could be competitively playing and have a family, though,” she stated, underscoring the significant challenges that come with juggling both roles.
This sentiment resonates with fellow LPGA star Lexi Thompson, who has already announced her intention to retire from competitive play to focus on marriage and motherhood. Like Thompson, Ko has dedicated two decades to the sport, and the prospect of stepping away for family life is becoming increasingly real.
Acknowledging the Superwomen of Golf
Ko expressed immense admiration for her fellow golfers who manage to balance family life and a professional career. She referred to these women as “superwomen,” recognizing the remarkable effort it takes to navigate the demands of both motherhood and competitive golf. “It’s hard enough carrying my own suitcase and golf bag!” she remarked, reflecting on the unique challenges faced by those who manage to excel in both realms.
She also noted the joy she sees in mothers who reunite with their children after rounds, a moment she imagines would bring her tremendous happiness if she were in their shoes.
Retirement Plans: A Future Beyond Golf
Looking ahead, Ko has not shied away from discussing her retirement plans. At just 17, she had publicly declared her intention to retire at 30, a sentiment she has revisited over the years. After her impressive achievements, including winning the British Open and an Olympic gold medal in Paris, her perspective has become clearer. “I know for a fact I’m probably never playing past 30,” she affirmed, indicating a strong commitment to her plans.
Despite her incredible success on the tour—21 LPGA victories and a storied career—Ko has reiterated that her focus will shift away from professional play as she approaches this milestone. She emphasized that even if she continues to win leading up to her retirement, her decision to step back would remain unchanged, driven by a desire to exit the sport while still performing at a high level.
The Legacy of Lydia Ko
As Lydia Ko approaches her second wedding anniversary in December 2024, fans are left to ponder what her departure from the sport might mean. With retirement looming, many will undoubtedly cherish the time they have left to watch her compete. While Ko has not completely ruled out occasional participation in events post-retirement, she, much like Thompson, appears poised to embrace a new chapter in her life—one focused on family.
In the coming years, as Ko navigates this transition, the world of golf will surely feel her absence. Yet, her legacy as one of the sport’s greats will endure, inspiring future generations of female golfers and athletes everywhere.
As Lydia Ko contemplates motherhood and the future, one question lingers: What will her next chapter hold? Fans and fellow players alike will be watching closely as she approaches this pivotal moment in her life.
