Lexi Thompson’s decision to step away from professional golf after 14 years was not an easy one, but it was a necessary step. Despite her early success, including qualifying for the U.S. Women’s Open at just 12 years old and securing 11 LPGA titles, the pressures of injuries, mental health struggles, and inconsistent form took a toll. As her former caddie Colton Heisey recently revealed, course design may have also played a role in limiting her true potential.
According to Heisey, LPGA course setups often favor precision over power, putting long hitters like Thompson at a disadvantage. Unlike the men’s tour, where distance is an asset, shorter layouts penalize big hitters, making it harder for them to excel. He highlighted how this “handcuffs” players like Thompson, Maria Fassi, and Anne van Dam, raising questions about whether the LPGA should tailor courses to accommodate different playing styles. Despite these challenges, Thompson remained determined, battling injuries while still striving for excellence in events like the Solheim Cup.
Away from the course, Thompson has been prioritizing her well-being, recently sharing glimpses of a well-deserved Miami getaway with friends. Her social media post from the ‘I Do Fashion Week’ showcased a lighter side of her life, reminding fans that even elite athletes need time to unwind. While her future in golf remains uncertain, Thompson’s resilience and dedication continue to inspire, leaving many eager to see what she takes on next.
