Lexi Thompson, born Alexis Noel Thompson on February 10, 1995, in Coral Springs, Florida, is a prominent American professional golfer known for her remarkable achievements on the LPGA Tour. With a career spanning over a decade, Thompson has established herself as one of the leading figures in women's golf, recognized for her powerful game and competitive spirit.
Lexi Thompson Early Life and Amateur Career
Thompson's journey in golf began at a young age; she started playing at just six years old, influenced by her family, particularly her father. By the age of 12, she made headlines by qualifying for the U.S. Women's Open in 2007, becoming the youngest player ever to do so at that time. This record was later surpassed in 2014 by Lucy Li.
Her amateur career was marked by significant accomplishments. In 2008, she won the U.S. Girls' Junior Championship and became the youngest winner of the Junior PGA Championship. In 2010, she represented the United States in the Curtis Cup, going undefeated with four wins and one draw.
Thompson turned professional in 2010 after an impressive amateur career and quickly made an impact on the LPGA Tour.
Professional Career
Thompson's professional debut came in 2011 when she won the Navistar LPGA Classic at just 16 years old, making her the youngest winner in LPGA history at that time. She followed this up with several victories, including her first major championship at the Kraft Nabisco Championship (now known as the Chevron Championship) in 2014, where she became the second-youngest woman to win a major title.
Throughout her career, Thompson has accumulated a total of 11 LPGA Tour victories and has represented Team USA in the Solheim Cup seven times (2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2021, 2023, and 2024). Her success on the course includes notable finishes in major championships and consistent performances that have kept her among the top-ranked players globally.
In addition to her tournament successes, Thompson has been recognized for her contributions to women's golf. She won the Race to CME Globe in 2017 and has earned accolades such as the Vare Trophy for having the lowest scoring average on tour.
Recent Developments
Despite facing challenges in recent years, including a win drought since 2019 on the LPGA Tour, Thompson has remained a competitive force. She achieved a significant victory at the Aramco Team Series - New York on the Ladies European Tour in 2022.
In early 2024, Thompson announced her decision to retire from full-time professional golf at the end of the year but expressed her intention to continue participating in select events. She also launched the Lexi Fitness App to focus on health and fitness after retirement.
Personal Life
Off the course, Thompson is known for her vibrant personality and philanthropic efforts. She has been open about her struggles with mental health and has used her platform to advocate for mental wellness in sports. Additionally, she is an avid supporter of various charitable causes.
Thompson enjoys spending time with family and friends and is a fan of ice hockey, supporting the Florida Panthers. Her close-knit family has often been involved in her golfing journey; she has frequently had family members caddie for her during tournaments.
Lexi Thompson Conclusion
Lexi Thompson's career is characterized by groundbreaking achievements and resilience. From becoming one of the youngest winners on tour to competing at an elite level for over a decade, she has left an indelible mark on women's golf. As she transitions into a new chapter post-retirement from full-time play, Thompson's influence on the sport will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of golfers. Her legacy as one of the game’s greats is firmly established as she looks forward to new opportunities beyond competitive golf.
