Though the physical struggles of competing in professional golf are known globally, the mental challenges have only been publicly voiced out in recent years. LPGA Tour star, Lexi Thompson, has been one of the biggest victims and advocates of the challenges on the golf courses. In 2018, she penned down an emotional caption on a post, sharing her difficult mental struggles.
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Since making her professional debut in 2010, Thompson has consistently been among the top players in the women’s professional circuit. She won her first Major title at age 19, after claiming the 2014 Chevron Championship.
However, achieving the grandest prize at a young age has its own limitations. Fans expected a lot more from Thompson following her great feats during her teenage years. But a run of poor results drew the LPGA star into depression.
Why did Lexi Thompson take a break from golf?
In 2018, Thompson surprised many by spending some time away from golf. Following the mass reaction to her decision, the LPGA Tour star posted a photo on Instagram providing a reason for her big break.
“The events of the past year and a half (on and off the golf course) have taken a tremendous toll on me both mentally and emotionally”, wrote the 27-year-old. She further added, “I have not truly felt like myself for some time”.
Though Lexi Thompson claimed to have a poor 2017 and 2018 season, many other golfers would consider it one of their personal best. In the 2017 LPGA season, she had two wins with ten top-10 finishes. Moreover, she finished third in the Money list rank of the mat season.
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However, before her break from the sport in 2018, Thompson’s results weren’t great as per her standards. Her performance was inconsistent which eventually led to her taking a break from the sport. However, following her return, Thompson won the final event of the season after claiming the CME Group Tour Championship.
The break was helpful for Thomspon, as she bounced back from mental struggles as well as her issues on the course. Still only 27 years of age, the LPGA star has a lot more to provide to the sport. And undoubtedly, she wouldn’t let her fans down with the high expectations.
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