Lexi Thompson and a parade of other LPGA veterans are stepping away

The LPGA Tour is undergoing a significant transition as nine accomplished players under 40, including four major champions, have decided to retire from full-time competition. Among them is Lexi Thompson, a celebrated figure in women’s golf known for her resilience and remarkable achievements.

Thompson, 29, announced earlier this year that 2024 would mark her final full season, leaving her future participation open-ended. She expressed a desire to take time for herself, though she hinted at possibly returning for select tournaments, such as the Chevron Championship, where she claimed her lone major title a decade ago..

Alongside Thompson, other veterans like Brittany Lincicome, So Yeon Ryu, and I.K. Kim have also stepped away, each citing personal and professional reasons.

These retirements reflect diverse motivations. Ally Ewing concluded her eighth season with a sense of fulfillment, citing her recent success as validation for her decision to leave at her peak. Meanwhile, Marina Alex shared an emotional farewell, emphasizing the mental and emotional toll of a competitive golf career.

Others, like Mariajo Uribe, Gerina Mendoza, and Amy Olson, have prioritized family, signaling a shift in their personal lives. This generational change in the LPGA underscores the evolving dynamics of professional golf, with these departures paving the way for new talent while marking the end of a celebrated era for the sport.