One of the most prominent figures in the world of women’s golf, Lexi Thompson, is about to embark on a groundbreaking journey as she tees it up in the prestigious Shriners Children’s Open, marking her first appearance on the PGA Tour. With this notable achievement, Thompson joins the ranks of a select few women who have taken on the challenge of competing in male professional golf tournaments.
The highly skilled 28-year-old golfer gracefully accepted a sponsor invitation to participate in the upcoming Oct. 12-15 event, amassing excitement among fans and industry insiders alike. Patrick Lindsey, the Executive Director of the Shriners Children’s Open, expressed his delight at welcoming Thompson to the tournament, emphasizing the significance of continuing to break down barriers in the sport.
Lexi Thompson’s journey of shattering records and transcending boundaries began early in her career. At the tender age of 12, she became the youngest player ever to qualify for the U.S. Women’s Open in 2007, setting the stage for her future successes. Four years later, at just 16 years old, Thompson clinched victory at the Navistar LPGA Classic, making her the youngest winner in LPGA Tour history.
Fresh off an impressive performance at the Solheim Cup, where the American team tied Europe 14-14, Thompson displayed her incredible talent, securing three wins and one loss during the highly anticipated event. Although the tiebreaker rule resulted in Europe retaining the Cup, Thompson’s resilient spirit remains undeterred.
Thrilled by the opportunity to play alongside her male counterparts at the Shriners Children’s Open, Thompson recognizes the profound impact her participation may have on aspiring young women. “I’m hopeful that my ability to compete with the men next week sends a powerful message to young women, illustrating that dreams can be pursued regardless of the obstacles faced,” Thompson expressed with gratitude toward the Shriners Children’s Open for the opportunity to spend the week alongside inspirational children.
As she prepares to embark on this historic endeavor, Thompson joins an esteemed group of trailblazing women who have previously competed in PGA Tour events. Brittany Lincicome notably played alongside male golfers in 2018 at the Barbasol Championship, while Michelle Wie West accomplished this milestone a decade earlier at the Legends Reno-Tahoe Open, participating in a total of eight PGA Tour events.
Joining these iconic women are Suzy Whaley, Annika Sorenstam, Shirley Spork, and Babe Didrikson Zaharias, all of whom have made significant contributions to the sport and left an indelible mark on the golfing world.
The Business Press 