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Almost a year ago, then 29-year-old LPGA winner Lexi Thompson won 11 times and announced that she would no longer be a full-time golfer.
At the time, Thompson cited her mental health as one of the factors that contributed to her decision.
“A lot of people don't realize… what we're going through as professional athletes. I'll be the last person who says, 'threw a sympathy party at me.' That's the last thing I want.
Now, for almost 12 months since the decision, Thompson doesn't seem to have any regrets.
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Team USA's Lexi Thompson will take photos alongside the trophy after beating Team Europe on September 15, 2024 at Robert Trent Jones Golf Club in Gainesville, Virginia. (Aaron Doster-Imagn image)
“It was very relaxing. I have far more time for me, my family, my friends, and for me, who I've been engaged recently. I'm happy to balance my life now. I've been in the professional world since I was 15, but I've been in the golf world since I was 7.
“I'm happy with (my decision). I'm still planning on playing around the place, but in my time more sporadically, and I'm trying to find a love for the game. It's been a part of my life since I was a little girl. Psychologically, I'm more peaceful. And when I do it, it's an event I'm looking forward to and I feel ready for my game.”
US Lexi Thompson will attack her tee shot on the fourth hole in the first round of the Far Hills Ceri Pack Championship at Palos Verdes Golf Club, held at Palos Verdes Estate, California on March 21, 2024. (Orlando Ramirez/Getty Images)
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Before Nelly Corda and Rose Chan came, Thompson was there – a young genius who took the world of golf in women's US qualifying at age 12. Thompson has one major in her name.
With women's sports becoming more and more popular, some may have probably felt that Thompson's job was to grow the game.
But the self comes first, Thompson said.
“I think there's always external pressure and expectations from the world. Only people in the golf industry. But most importantly, you need to focus on yourself, why do I need to focus on the game.
Team USA's Lexi Thompson celebrates the trophy after beating Team Europe at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Club. (Aaron Doster-Imagn image)
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Thompson is still active in the golf community and helps the sport grow by giving daily golfers the opportunity to win a 29-night cruise.
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