Lexi Thompson, an established figure in the women’s golf fraternity, will be making her groundbreaking PGA Tour debut this week at the prestigious Shriners Children’s Open in Las Vegas. As one of the seven women to ever compete in a PGA Tour event, Thompson faces a notable challenge, but she remains poised and focused on showcasing her skills.
During a recent media session, Thompson expressed her confidence in her abilities, stating, “I just got to play within myself. I know my game. Don’t try to push anything. Play within myself, and that’s all I can do. Try my best on every single shot, 100% committed. Whatever happens, I can only control my emotions and my game.”
Thompson arrives in Las Vegas following back-to-back top-10 finishes and an impressive performance at the Solheim Cup last month, where she recorded a 3-1-0 record. At the Ascendant LPGA benefiting Volunteers of America, she secured a solo fifth-place finish, just six strokes behind the winner, Hyo Joo Kim of South Korea. Additionally, Thompson tied for 8th at the Walmart NW Arkansas Championship two weeks prior, leading to her invitation to the Shriners Children’s Open.
Expressing her gratitude to the Shriners for the opportunity, Thompson highlighted the significance of her participation, both personally and as an inspiration for the Shriners kids. She emphasized that no dream is too small and that everyone should fearlessly pursue their passions.
Notably, Thompson’s brothers, Nicholas and Curtis, have also pursued careers in professional golf. While Nicholas played in several major championships, Curtis spent the past season on the Korn Ferry Tour. Their experience and advice have proven valuable to Lexi as she prepares to conquer TPC Summerlin.
Coming into the competition, Thompson’s driving distance of 270.7 yards ranks 12th on the LPGA tour, a statistic that may work in her favor at TPC Summerlin. The golfer believes her length off the tee will be advantageous, especially on courses with firmer, far-reaching greens. Thompson expressed her excitement about tackling each hole head-on, armed with her driver and the confidence to maximize her distance.
While the challenge ahead is significant, Thompson remains focused on taking one step at a time. Making the cut at the Shriners Children’s Open would undoubtedly be a tremendous achievement for her. No LPGA player has ever accomplished this feat at a PGA Tour event, and Thompson acknowledges the honor associated with such an accomplishment.
Thompson is scheduled to tee off for her first round on Thursday at 4:19 p.m. Eastern time, joining Kevin Roy and Trevor Werbylo. For avid golf fans eager to witness this historic moment, Golf Channel will commence live coverage of the Shriners Children’s Open at 5 p.m. ET on both Thursday and Friday.
As Lexi Thompson embarks on this remarkable journey, the golfing world eagerly awaits the outcome. Her determination, talent, and the support of her brothers are sure to leave an indelible mark in the history books of women’s golf.
The Business Press 