Renowned for her strength, accuracy, and tenacity, Lexi Thompson is one name that reverberates in world golf like a lingering tune. Though only 29, it feels like she has been competing for ages, a testament to her extraordinary skill and unrelenting commitment.
But the years on Tour and constant media glare have taken a toll, and barring a sudden change of mind, Thompson will call time on her glorious career at the culmination of the 2024 LPGA season. The 11-time LPGA champion announced her decision to retire from professional golf ahead of the 2024 US Women’s Open in May, a competition she first competed in as a 12-year-old prodigy, sending shockwaves all around.
While her decision will leave a vacuum on the LPGA, Thompson’s incredible career and impact will continue to inspire generations. Let’s rewind and chart her remarkable career and accomplishments.
Born on February 10, 1995, in Coral Springs, Florida, Lexi Thompson was raised in a golf-loving household. Her father, Scott, introduced her to the game, and the supportive family nurtured her passion from an early age. Her two elder brothers pursued professional careers on the Korn Ferry Tour and PGA Tour.
Thompson started at five and was homeschooled by her parents. Mother, Judy, instilled mental toughness, while Scott taught her the technical aspects of the game.
In 2007, Thompson made history as the youngest to get a spot in the US Women’s Open at 12. Subsequently, she won the Aldila Junior Classic and Westfield Junior PGA Championship the same year, becoming the second-youngest winner in American Junior Golf Association history.
In 2008, she won the United States Girls’ Junior Championship and qualified for the 2008 US Women’s Open, but failed to make cut again. In 2009, at 14, Thompson qualified for the US Women’s Open and made the cut for the first time at the Saucon Valley Country Club. She won the Verizon Junior Heritage and represented the winning United States team in the Curtis Cup.
