Lincicome realised she wanted to retire only a few months ago. As recently as July, she told friends that she still had 10 years left in the tank, feeling she still had the game even though her head often got in the way.
The three-time LPGA winner, 31, announced on Instagram overnight (Australian time) that she is leaving the professional game and thanked friends, family and past caddies for their consistent support throughout her eight-year LPGA career.
The question was bound to be asked of Tiger Woods at his Tuesday press conference ahead of the British Open. And his response was a predictable mix of sarcasm, cheekiness and clap-back.
Thompson may be only 29 years old, but she’s been playing competitive professional golf since she was 15 and has the equivalent of what would be a full career in many other sports under her belt before her 30th birthday. What seemed clear, as she explained her decision, is that the lifestyle has worn on her.