Lexi Thompson Hints at Potential Return to LPGA Post-Retirement: ‘Might Tee It Up…’

Lexi Thompson Hints at Potential Return to LPGA Post-Retirement: ‘Might Tee It Up…’

Lexi Thompson, the 11-time LPGA Tour champion who has been a mainstay in the world of professional golf since she was just 12 years old, is set to retire at the end of the current season. Her retirement marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in the sport, one that began with her groundbreaking appearance as a young prodigy and evolved into a distinguished career spanning over a decade. However, her recent remarks suggest that this may not be the absolute end of her golfing journey.

 

Thompson’s decision to step away from the LPGA Tour is deeply intertwined with her personal well-being and future aspirations. At just 29 years old, she has chosen to retire due to the significant mental health challenges and the intense pressure associated with a career in professional golf. This decision comes at a time when she has also announced plans to get married, signaling a shift in focus toward her personal life and future family.

 

In an exclusive interview with Golf.com, Thompson addressed whether a potential victory in the remaining events of the season could alter her decision to retire. Her response was clear: “It wouldn’t make a difference. As much as people would love to hear that answer, that I would change my mind.” Despite her competitive spirit and desire to win every time she steps onto the course, she affirmed that her decision to retire is firm. Nevertheless, her comments leave a glimmer of hope for her fans.

 

Thompson revealed that while she is stepping away from a full-time competitive schedule, she may still make occasional appearances on the golf course. “I might tee it up a few more times next year,” she noted. “But you know, I’m going to take time for myself, time away, and if I feel good about it, I might play in front of my fans. I still want to tee it up and play if I can.” This statement suggests that while Thompson’s professional presence may become less frequent, she is not entirely closing the door on future golf appearances.

 

Thompson’s retirement announcement on Instagram earlier this year shed light on the struggles she has faced throughout her career. She reflected on the constant scrutiny and pressure that has accompanied her since her debut at the US Women’s Open as a 12-year-old. “Since I was 12 years old, my life as a golfer has been a whirlwind of constant attention, scrutiny, and pressure. The cameras are always on, capturing every swing and every moment on and off the golf course,” she wrote. Her decision to retire full-time is a response to these challenges, aiming to offer her a reprieve from the relentless spotlight and a chance to focus on her personal life.

 

Thompson’s impact on the sport has been profound. She first made headlines by becoming the youngest player ever to qualify for the US Women’s Open at age 12. Turning professional in 2010 at the age of 15, she quickly made her mark by winning the Kraft Nabisco Championship in 2014, securing her first major title. Her career has seen her reach a high of world No. 4 and achieve notable milestones, including becoming one of the few women to compete in a PGA Tour event, the Shriners Open, and participating in The Match alongside Rose Zhang, where they faced off against PGA Tour stars Rory McIlroy and Max Homa.

 

Despite her impressive career, Thompson’s last victory came five years ago at the ShopRite LPGA Classic, where she narrowly defeated Jeongeun Lee. With her retirement approaching, she is focused on making the most of the remaining tournaments, including the Solheim Cup, which starts on September 13. There are still 10 more tournaments left in the season, providing her with ample opportunities to potentially add to her list of victories before officially stepping away from full-time competition.

 

Looking ahead, Thompson’s post-golf plans are centered around significant life changes. As she approaches her 30th birthday, she has expressed a strong desire to settle down, get married, and start a family. “That’s my No. 1 priority,” she stated during a press conference before the AIG Open on August 21. She is also eager to embark on extensive travel, embracing the freedom to explore and enjoy new experiences without the constraints of a rigorous golf schedule. “Next year I want to travel. 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,” she added.

 

In addition to her personal and travel plans, Thompson is also looking to stay connected with her fans through other avenues. One of her significant retirement projects is to engage with a fitness app, which will allow her to continue inspiring and instructing her followers. Thompson, who has always been dedicated to fitness, has been known to maintain an intense workout regimen, often training twice a day. Her involvement in the fitness industry will offer fans a new way to interact with her and benefit from her expertise, even as her presence on the golf course becomes less frequent.

 

In summary, while Lexi Thompson’s retirement from full-time professional golf marks the end of an era, it also opens up new possibilities for her future endeavors. Her commitment to her personal well-being, family, and travel reflects a desire for a more balanced and fulfilling life beyond the greens. Although her competitive appearances may become rare, Thompson’s impact on the sport and her ongoing contributions through fitness and fan engagement ensure that her influence will continue to be felt in the world of golf.