Craving ‘Marriage & Family’, Lexi Thompson to Scrap Retirement Plans on One Big Condition: ‘I’d Love To..’
Lexi Thompson has announced that she plans to retire from professional golf at the end of the current season, marking the end of an era in her storied career. As she approaches her 30th birthday next year, Thompson has articulated that her primary focus will shift towards personal life and family. Ahead of the AIG Open last month, she made it clear that getting married and starting a family are her top priorities. Despite her retirement from competitive golf, Thompson has expressed a desire to remain connected to the sport, particularly through the Solheim Cup.
In a recent interview leading up to the Solheim Cup, Thompson shared that while she has not mapped out her post-golf career in detail, she is eager to stay involved with the event that has been a significant part of her career. “I haven’t thought too much ahead,” Thompson admitted when discussing her future role with the US team. However, she did reveal her wish to be associated with the Solheim Cup in some capacity, acknowledging the profound impact it has had on her life and career. “I’d love to be still a part of it in any way,” she said, reflecting on the many memories, relationships, and friendships she has built through her participation in the tournament.
Thompson’s contributions to the Solheim Cup are noteworthy. Over the years, she has made a total of six appearances in the tournament, accumulating a record of 9 wins, 7 losses, and 7 ties. Her performance has been particularly strong in recent years, with three wins and only one loss in her matches last year against top competitors like Leona Maguire and Georgia Hall. Thompson’s involvement in the 2015 and 2017 US victories stands out, especially her successful partnership with Cristie Kerr. Together, they formed a formidable team, going 4-0-2 across six sessions in those winning years.
Thompson’s tenure in the Solheim Cup has not been without controversy. Her debut appearance in 2013 was marked by a contentious ruling during a match at the Colorado Golf Club. In a match tied with Pettersen and Carlota Ciganda, a half-hour delay occurred when Ciganda’s second shot landed in the water. Despite the LPGA later clarifying that the ruling had been incorrect, Europe managed to secure a win on the 16th hole.
As Thompson prepares to retire from competitive play, she remains deeply embedded in the golfing community. Her significant role in the US team’s recent successes and her respected standing among her peers suggest that her involvement in the sport may continue in other capacities. Stacy Lewis, the current captain, has indicated that Thompson would have been a key figure regardless of her performance, given her strong record and influential presence.
Looking ahead, Thompson’s immediate plans involve a few more tournaments before she steps away from the professional scene. She will participate in the Kroger Queen City Championship pres. by P&G in Cincinnati, followed by the Walmart NW Arkansas Championship pres. by P&G in Arkansas. She also plans to compete in the Florida swing, including The ANNIKA driven by Gainbridge and the CME Group Tour Championship, both of which are set in Florida.
As Thompson transitions to her post-golf life, she emphasizes the importance of taking time for herself and reflecting on her future. “I’m just going to take it day by day,” she stated regarding her plans for 2025. With her retirement from competitive play on the horizon, Thompson’s fans are hopeful for her continued engagement with the sport in some form while supporting her in her new life chapter.
