Lexi Thompson has shocked the golf world by announcing her retirement from the sport at the age of 29. Why did Lexi Thompson retire?

Ahead of the 2024 US Women’s Open, a tournament Thompson appeared in when just 12 in 2007, announced that she will retire at the end of 2024.

She will walk away from the sport as a celebrated champion with 15 wins to her name and a reputation as one of the most fierce competitors.

Thompson also broke new ground in 2023 when teeing it up in the 2023 Shriners Children’s Open on the PGA Tour with her male counterparts.

Why Did Lexi Thompson Retire?

In recent years, Thompson has faced numerous challenges that have undoubtedly contributed to her decision to retire from professional golf.

One of the primary reasons cited is the physical toll the sport has taken on her body. Continuous travel, rigorous training, and the intense competition schedule have led to persistent injuries and fatigue.

Additionally, Thompson has spoken openly about the mental strain and pressure that come with maintaining a high level of performance.

Balancing personal life with the demands of professional golf also played a significant role in her decision. By stepping away from the sport, Thompson aims to prioritize her health and well-being.

Her decision followed the death of Grayson Murray, who committed suicide just hours after withdrawing from the 2024 Charles Schwab Challenge.

Thompson has expressed a desire to explore other passions and interests outside of golf. She has shown an interest in business ventures, including potentially launching her own brand or line of products.

Thompson is also committed to giving back to the community and has plans to increase her involvement in charitable activities and youth programs.

Lexi Thompson Reaction

“While it is never easy to say goodbye, it is indeed time,” Lexi Thompson said on why she retired. “At the end of 2024, I will be stepping away from a full professional golf schedule.

“I’m excited to enjoy the remainder of the year as there are still goals I want to accomplish. I’m looking forward to the next chapter of my life. Time with family, friends, and my trusted companion, Leo.

“I will always look for ways to contribute to the sport and inspire the next generation of golfers. And, of course, I look forward to a little time for myself.

“Being out here can be a lot. It can be lonely. Especially with what’s happened in golf, as of recently too (the death of Grayson Murray), a lot of people don’t realise a lot of what we go through as a professional athlete.

“I’ll be the last one to say like throw me a pity party. That’s the last thing I want. We’re doing what we love. We’re trying the best every single day. You know, we’re not perfect. We’re humans. Words hurt. It’s hard to overcome sometimes.

“But having the people around you that love you and support you, I feel like that’s been the biggest thing for me. I might not have a huge friend group, but to have the people that matter the most around me have gotten me through some really hard times.

“I think it’s a lot for everyone out here or in any professional sport. A lot of people don’t know what we go through.

“The amount of training and hard work that we put ourselves through, it’s a lot. I think we deserve a lot more credit than what we get.”

Lexi Thompson Career

Lexi Thompson first emerged as a 12-year-old playing in the US Women’s Open and turned professional at the age of 15.

Known for her powerful drives and consistent performance, Thompson quickly made a name for herself on the LPGA Tour.

Over the years, she accumulated multiple wins, including a major championship at the 2014 Kraft Nabisco Championship.

In total, Thompson has recorded 11 LPGA Tour victories, including the Kraft Nabisco Championship success.

Her other LPGA Tour wins came in the 2011 Navistar LPGA Classic, 2013 Sime Darby LPGA Malaysia and Lorena Ochoa Invitational, 2015 Meijer LPGA Classic and LPGA KEB Hana Bank Championship, 2016 Honda LPGA Thailand, 2017 Kingsmill Championship and Indy Women in Tech Championship, 2018 CME Group Tour Championship and 2019 ShopRite LPGA Classic.

There are also two Ladies European Tour wins on Thompson’s CV in the 2011 Dubai Ladies Masters and 2022 Aramco Team Series New York event.

Thompson also has one LPGA Tour of Japan victory to her name having won the 2016 World Ladies Championship Salonpas Cup.