Lexi Thompson’s Unexpected Exit and the Legacy She Leaves Behind
When Lexi Thompson announced she was stepping away from full-time professional golf at just 29, the reaction across the golf world was equal parts shock and quiet admiration. The announcement came in May 2024, fittingly at the U.S. Women’s Open—a tournament she first qualified for at the tender age of 12. It felt like a full-circle moment, the kind you can’t script. And while her absence leaves a notable void on the LPGA Tour, her presence—what she’s meant to the game—still lingers, unmistakably.
Early Days: One of Those “Born with It” Talents
Lexi Thompson’s story isn’t exactly your average childhood hobby-turned-career. Born in 1995 in Coral Springs, Florida, she was practically raised on the golf course. Her father, a club pro, was her first coach, and by five, she was already swinging clubs that probably weighed half as much as she did—her first kids golf bag always close by.
At 12, she made headlines by becoming the youngest to qualify for the U.S. Women’s Open—a jaw-dropping achievement that left commentators scrambling for words (and statisticians digging through history books). She turned pro at 16, and soon after, she wasn’t just “the future of women’s golf”—she was its present. People called her “Lexi Long” for a reason—her drives could outpace most on the tour, and not just the women.
But the real story wasn’t just about how far she could hit the ball. Her game matured quickly. Within that same year, she won her first LPGA event, becoming the second-youngest to ever do it. And if there were doubters at that point, they got real quiet, real fast.
When It Got Tough: Not Everything Shows on the Scorecard
If you followed Lexi Thompson’s career even a little, you probably remember 2017. That major championship. The rules controversy. It was brutal to watch—more so because it felt unfair, and frankly, bizarre. A four-shot penalty assessed after the round? Even for golf, that was extreme.
But what stood out more than the controversy itself was what came after. Lexi Thompson didn’t deflect or disappear—she opened up. She admitted the emotional toll it took. Talked about burnout, about mental health. At the time, that kind of vulnerability from a top-tier athlete wasn’t common. Especially not in golf, where stoicism is practically part of the dress code.
In doing so, she gave others permission to say, “Hey, I’m struggling too.” And that kind of impact? It doesn’t fade with the leaderboard.
Beyond Trophies: The Role Model Lexi Thompson Became (Even If She Didn’t Plan To)
Sure, she’s got 15 LPGA titles to her name, including the 2014 ANA Inspiration. But if you ask around, Lexi Thompson’s influence goes well beyond those numbers. She wasn’t your stereotypical golfer. She brought muscle and athleticism to a sport often framed around “delicate touch” and “graceful swings.”
And for a lot of young girls—especially those who didn’t see themselves represented in golf—she was proof that you could be powerful, bold, and emotional, and still belong on the green.
Her candidness about mental health? That cracked open a much-needed conversation. Coaches, parents, players—they started thinking a little differently about what support actually looks like.
Taking a Step Back
Lexi Thompson’s May 2024 announcement wasn’t a goodbye. It was more of a “I need to breathe” kind of move. She made it clear she’s not vanishing from the sport entirely. Major championships, a few LPGA events—those are still on the radar.
And wouldn’t you know it? In early 2025, she finished top 10 at the Founders Cup. Just a little reminder: she may not be grinding week in and week out, but she can still hang with the best.
Life Beyond the Tour: Fitness Apps and Financial Wellness? Yep.
Lexi Thompson’s never been the type to sit still. Shortly after scaling back her schedule, she launched Lexi Fitness, a sleek training and wellness app that combines her favorite workouts, nutrition hacks, and mental health tips. Think less “influencer” and more “genuinely useful.”
She also inked a deal with Empower Retirement, signing on as a brand ambassador. At first glance, golf and financial wellness may seem like strange bedfellows—but honestly, it tracks. She’s always been about building strength—in the body, in the mind, and now, in the wallet.
Big News from the Mountains: Engagement and Family Hopes
On New Year’s Day 2025, Lexi Thompson dropped a personal bombshell: she’s engaged. The lucky guy? Max Provost, her longtime boyfriend who’s also been known to carry her bag during tournaments. The proposal happened in Whistler, British Columbia—a snowy backdrop for a pretty idyllic announcement.
She’s since mentioned how excited she is about getting married, possibly starting a family. And while she never said it directly, you get the sense this new chapter is part of why she chose to slow down.
Still Giving Back (and Then Some)
These days, Lexi Thompson’s showing up in ways that don’t involve a scorecard. She’s been speaking out on mental health, working with charities, and leading junior golf clinics that focus on giving girls—especially those from diverse backgrounds—a better shot at falling in love with the game.
She’s also dipped a toe into media. Analyst gigs, podcasts, maybe even some commentary. And always, always mentoring the next wave of young pros. Because if there’s one thing she knows, it’s how heavy those expectations can be—and how important it is to have someone in your corner.
The Legacy She’s Still Writing
Lexi Thompson may have stepped away from the relentless rhythm of full-time competition, but calling it a “retirement” doesn’t quite fit. With over $13 million in earnings, a major title, and a career that started before most people get their driver’s license, she’s already one of the greats.
But legacy? That’s a living, breathing thing—and hers is still evolving. Whether she’s in front of the camera, mentoring on the range, or running her next big venture, Lexi’s influence is far from finished. She’s proof that stepping back isn’t the same as stepping away—and that sometimes, the most inspiring chapters come after the spotlight dims.
