Lexi Thompson questioned over ‘confusing’ retirement decision

When Lexi Thompson seemingly announced her retirement last year, it was unclear how much the American would play.

In May 2024, she said it was ‘time to say goodbye’ after turning professional at the age of 15.

But Thompson, 30, has already played eight times on the LPGA Tour this year, registering two top ten finishes on the women’s circuit.

And speaking on Quiet Please! With Mel and Kira, Reid suggested that Thompson’s announcement could’ve been handled better.

“Listen, I’m probably going to get slammed for this, but this is just my opinion, and it is our podcast so I should be entitled to my opinion,” the Englishwoman said.

“I don’t think she necessarily went about announcing her retirement from full-time play [the right way], I think if she could do it again, she would because it’s very confusing for a lot of people.

“I think if she just wanted to reduce her playing schedule, probably she should have just naturally done that, and then commented on it if she was getting a lot of attention about it.”

• Georgia Hall hopes boyfriend (former tour winner) can inspire win

• Genesis Scottish Open announces huge change to ‘stadium hole’

Reid, a one-time winner on the LPGA Tour and four-time Solheim Cup player, understood the decision, though.

She heaped praise on Thompson for her impact on the game and how she’s handled the spotlight from such a young age.

“Listen, I don’t blame Lexi, she’s been a child star since she was 12 years old,” Reid added. “She’s burnt out, I get it.

“She has a lot of pressure, she honestly brings in so many fans on the LPGA, so she has a lot of commitment to stuff. She says yes to everything. She’s brilliant. I cannot fault her.

“And honestly, since saying that she’s not playing a full schedule she’s been playing great. I think she’s allowing herself a bit of time off, which is very good for her because she’s been, like I said, literally acting like a professional since she was 11 years old.

“So, it’s good for her, I just thought she was retiring, and I think a lot of other people did.”

• Lee Westwood reacts after sealing stunning Open return

• LIV Golf 2026 schedule set to include two new events

Thompson, meanwhile, has addressed the same concerns previously. At the US Women’s Open, she addressed the situation and defender her position.

The major champ insisted she never used the word ‘retire’ in her initial announcement.

“I’m not sure how many times I’ll have to repeat this, but I never used the word retire, I said not a full-time schedule, because I’m not sure how much I will play,” she wrote on social media.

“Just taking it one at a time. That’s why I’m still playing the tournaments I actually enjoy or want to play in. Much love to my true fans out there, thank you for your genuine support, you’re amazing.”