‘Got Homesick’: After Lexi Thompson’s Painful Breakdown, LPGA’s ‘Lonely’ Reality Exposed by 3x Major Winner

Following this LPGA season, Lexi Thompson will no longer be seen on the professional greens. Just before her 18th consecutive start this year at the US Women’s Open, Thompson announced her retirement. The 11-time LPGA Tour winner did not reveal the reason that led to such a life-changing decision.

During a press conference at Pennsylvania’s Lancaster Country Club, the 29-year-old tearfully spoke about the hardships that could be one of the many reasons behind her departure from the realm of professional golf: “Just staying true to myself. Being out here can be a lot. It can be lonely.” This revelation undoubtedly caught many by surprise, given that the golfer is typically surrounded by fans and fellow LPGA pros. Thompson is not the only one who feels this way; there are other LPGA pros experiencing similar sentiments; and one of them happens to be In Gee Chun.

Three-time Major winner In Gee Chun voiced her feelings and reflected on the harsh reality of the LPGA. During the press conference at Lancaster, Gee Chun came across the question, “We had Lexi here yesterday and she was talking about how sometimes she can find life on Tour as kind of a lonely place, and the pressure from the media can sometimes be a little overwhelming. Is there anything you can relate to in that?”

In response, the 30-year-old said, “I grew up in Korea, so when I moved to the U.S. for golf, it’s not easy because I got homesick and then I always miss my friends and family who lives in Korea.” Although the initial revelation was about when she moved, she empathized with Thompson while further disclosing: I know it’s not easy. All the players have the same feeling, I think. But I don’t want to put more negative things on my shoulders and in my head. I truly understand what Lexi got to feel.”