With such an enduring presence on the LPGA Tour, it’s hard to believe that Lexi Thompson is still only 29 years old. But let’s not forget that her golf journey began at an exceptionally early age when, at 12, she became the youngest player ever to qualify for the US Women’s Open before turning professional at just 15.
Florida-based Thompson grew up living on a golf course, where her two older brothers, Nicholas and Curtis, also played. “I knew at the age of ten that I wanted to fully commit to golf, practise relentlessly, and make it my livelihood,” she says with a focused and determined demeanour that resonates throughout our conversation.
Growing up, golf consumed Thompson’s life. She was homeschooled and made numerous childhood sacrifices to pursue her ambition of becoming one of the world’s best female golfers. She acknowledges that her dedication was a mindset not suitable for every kid; she prioritised playing golf over other experiences, choosing not to attend college and explore various social aspects.
When asked if she would have done anything differently reflecting on her younger years, Thompson muses, “Maybe going to college would have been fun. I visited my brother at Louisiana State University a few times and I feel I would have enjoyed it, but at the sameto eight hours a day every day, which I’d done since the age of 12. It would have been a very different way of life, but you can definitely take on college and be an amazing athlete – that shows in a lot of people.
