From Prodigy to Pioneer: Lexi Thompson Announces Retirement from Golf at 29

Lexi Thompson’s successful career in golf began at a young age when she became the youngest competitor in the U.S. Women’s Open at the age of 12 in 2007. Despite not winning the event, it seems fitting that she would make a significant life announcement during this tournament.

Leading up to the 79th U.S. Women’s Open at Lancaster Country Club, Thompson announced her retirement on the USGA’s website. At 29 years old, she plans to finish out the remainder of the 2024 season. Thompson, who has been dealing with a hand injury, has had a successful career with 11 wins on the LPGA tour, including her first major win at the 2014 Chevron Championship. She made history by winning her first LPGA title at the age of 16, a record later broken by Lydia Ko at 15.

Even though World No. 1 Nelly Korda is currently in the spotlight, Thompson has long been a prominent figure in American golf. Throughout her 13 seasons on tour, Thompson has faced challenges and heartbreak, such as the 2017 ANA Inspiration when a scoring error cost her the tournament victory. Despite these setbacks, Thompson has remained a fan favorite and has represented the U.S. on six Solheim Cup teams.

Thompson has a chance to compete in one more Solheim Cup later this season