Jack Nicklaus always said the game of golf is 90% mental and 10% physical. And honestly, that’s never been more true than when you see a champion gearing up for battle. It’s not about having the fanciest equipment or looking picture-perfect. It’s about that unmistakable confidence when someone’s absolutely ready to take on any challenge. That’s precisely what Lexi Thompson just announced to the golf world.

Thompson delivered her message through a perfectly timed social media post. The image shows her looking supremely fit and tournament-ready. Her caption speaks volumes: “Last day of prep ✅ time to head to the @uswomensopen ! #19” This edition marks her record 19th appearance at this major. Her first time playing at this USGA event in 2007 was just as special as she, who was just 12 at the time, became the then-youngest qualifier in U.S. Women’s Open history.

What makes this declaration particularly meaningful is Thompson’s tournament history. Her 18-year U.S. Women’s Open journey includes two heartbreaking runner-up finishes. She came agonizingly close in 2019, finishing one stroke behind, but lost. Moreover, the timing of her stunning confidence couldn’t be more strategic given her current status in professional golf.

We all know Thompson announced her semi-retirement last year, but she remains selectively competitive for events. Despite stepping back from full-time competition, she’s clearly chosen the U.S. Women’s Open as one of those crucial appearances she will be making this year. She also played in the Chevron Championship and finished 14th.

Her world ranking is No. 51, reflecting reduced tournament participation. Nevertheless, recent performances demonstrate she can still challenge elite fields. The message to her rivals is clear—semi-retirement doesn’t mean stepping down from championship contention.

Beyond the numbers, Thompson’s social media declaration signals something more profound about her selective competitive approach heading into the championship.

Lexi Thompson fans rally behind U.S. Women’s Open championship dreams

The Instagram post immediately triggered enthusiastic responses from supporters worldwide. Their comments reveal deep-rooted confidence in her championship abilities.

The Instagram post generated immediate responses from Thompson’s supporters. One excited fan commented, “Congratulations, Lexi, looking strong and healthy 😍😍👏❤️😍” showing admiration for her physical preparation. The response shows fans noticed her fitness work with trainer Kolby Wayne.

Comments continued building throughout the thread. Another fan declared “GO LEXI! 🔥” expressing enthusiasm for her championship attempt. The energy shows growing support behind her bid.

Fans offered detailed encouragement about Thompson’s tournament chances. One supporter stated, “You look fantastic, fit and ready to go. Go and get em! I hope you win it!” The comment shows belief in her victory potential. It also shows fans see her tournament readiness.

Supporters connected Thompson’s major championship experience to this opportunity. One fan wrote, “You can do it, Lexi! After all, you’re a US Open Champion! Go for it! No step Backwards.” This reference to her 2014 Chevron Championship victory shows why fans believe in her abilities.

The support continued with direct encouragement. Another fan emphasized, “Good luck at the open, you are definitely talented enough to win, and don’t ever forget it ❤️❤️.“ This shows Thompson’s continued popularity despite limited tournament play. The comments show strong fan backing heading into the championship.

Thompson’s confident Instagram declaration and overwhelming fan support create a compelling championship narrative. Her 19th consecutive U.S. Women’s Open appearance at Erin Hills could finally deliver the elusive victory that’s defined her career pursuit. The mental game Nicklaus spoke about? Thompson appears to have mastered it just in time.