2023 was an unpredictable challenge for Lexi Thompson. Although for the majority of the year she dealt with a bad slump, she turned the tables at the Solheim Cup. Despite her team losing to Europe, her performance shone bright. This improved the late-suffering image. And this week, she made her debut on the PGA Tour.

Thompson performed at the Shriners Children’s Open, and all eyes were on her. This is a very critical tournament for the 28-year-old, and it could have been a game-changer for her. But despite her best efforts, she couldn’t cut and ended up facing much trolling. However, she found an unexpected friend and supporter in Paige Spiranac.

Paige Spiranac beams with pride over Lexi Thompson

Spiranac has now become an influencer, but there was a time when the golf beauty harbored the dream of playing on the LPGA Tour. She even tried her hand at it but couldn’t get her card. And though it left her heart aching, she doesn’t hesitate to give credit where it’s due.

In the latest episode of her podcast, Playing a Round with Paige, she showered well-deserved praise on Thompson. Speaking about her on-course interaction with Thompson, she mentioned, “She was a phenom when she was 10, 11, 12, 13. I remember her winning events at 12. And I’m playing against her, and I’m like, I have no shot.”

Spiranac continued her praise of the LPGA phenom and claimed that she was truly a star and had “been so good for so long.” The golf beauty further defended her against all those belittling her and said, “For people to say that she doesn’t deserve it, she’s been in the spotlight for such a long time. And I can’t think of someone more deserving of this opportunity.”

These words of praise must sound delightful to Thompson, who is the seventh woman to compete in a PGA Tour event. Though her heroics couldn’t fulfill their destiny, she at least found a new friend who came to her aid.

Also Read – ‘A Class Act!’: Despite a Remorseful PGA Tour Debut, Lexi Thompson Still Shines Brighter Than the Men Counterparts

Spiranac was impressed with Thompson’s improvement

Spiranac, who recorded this episode before Thompson performed, had shown extreme faith in her. She added, “I don’t think that the course will overpower her. It comes down to a short game since that has been an issue with her game in the last couple of weeks. But it looks like she’s chipping better. She’s been working on it. She’s been gaining confidence.”

On Thursday, Lexi Thompson finished the first round with a two-over par 73. On the second day, Thompson carded 2 under 69. Even though she missed the cut, the LPGA star was thankful for her time there and was happy to contribute to a good cause.

What did you think of her performance alongside the men in the sport? Let us know in the comments below.

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