Ranking Top 3 Lexi Thompson Moments at the Majors

The golf world is stunned by Lexi Thompson’s shocking announcement. Just before the inauguration of the 2024 US Women’s Open, the beloved star revealed that she will be stepping away from the LPGA Tour at the end of the ongoing season. 

In an emotional statement on Instagram, she said: “While it is never easy to say goodbye, it is indeed time. At the end of 2024, I will be stepping away from a full professional golf schedule.” Her golfing career has been a rollercoaster ride, but let’s reflect on three of her most memorable moments in major championships. 

1. Youngest to qualify for the U.S. Women’s Open in 2007

In 2007, Lexi Thompson made headlines by becoming the youngest player to qualify for the U.S. Women’s Open at 12 years, 4 months, and 18 days old. This remarkable feat took place at Pine Needles Lodge and Golf Club, where she competed in her first major championship. She is also the third-youngest competitor in this highly admired tournament.

Her participation marked the beginning of an enthusiastic career. Over the next 17 years, she transformed from a young prodigy into a major champion. Becoming an 11-time LPGA Tour winner, a two-time Olympian, and a beloved figure in golf. Although, later on in 2014, her record of being the youngest to qualify for the US Women’s Open was broken by Lucy Li in 2014, her debut remains a significant milestone.

2. Thompson is one of the few players to win a major before 20

Thompson’s talent and determination again shone when she won the 2014 Kraft Nabisco Championship at age 19 years, 1 month, 27 days. She achieved a final score of 14-under par 274, showcasing her exceptional skill and composure. This victory placed her among the elite group of the youngest in the major champions in women’s golf history. Marking her the second-youngest woman to win the Chevron championship after Morgan Pressel, who won in 2007.

She stands alongside remarkable players like Lydia Ko, who won at 18 years, 4 months, and 20 days, and Brooke Henderson, who clinched a major title at 18 years, 9 months, and 2 days. The major win in 2014 cemented her name in the history of golf. It also inspired a new generation of young female golfers to pursue their dreams.

3. 18 consecutive U.S. Women’s Open appearances

The 29-year-old golfer’s career is a testament to her resilience and passion for the sport. As, she is set to compete in her 18th consecutive U.S. Women’s Open on May 30, 2024. She will be becoming the youngest player to achieve such a feat before turning 30. This reflects how she has been a consistent performer. Her tenacity and consistency are notable because she secured a permanent fixture in the top 10 of the world rankings between 2013-2022. 

Over the years, despite facing challenges, including injuries, Thompson has remained a formidable competitor. However, her 2023 season was particularly tough, with missed cuts and a wrist injury affecting her performance. Yet, she continued to push forward, demonstrating her commitment to the game and the fans. In her retirement statement, she also said, “I will always look for ways to contribute to the sport and inspire the next generation of golfers.” 

Well, 2024 is going to be her final year on the LPGA Tour. But the legacy she has made, and the role model she had become to the young guns, will be secure and will never fade. Lexi Thompson’s journey from a young prodigy to a major champion and key influential figure in the sport will continue to inspire the golfing community.