The story began in 2007 at Pine Needles, when the prodigious 12-year-old, Lexi Thompson, entered the US Open, the youngest to ever compete there. Hence, after 17 years in 2024, it was only fitting that she announced her retirement from full-time golf at the Lancaster Country Club and her future plans because, “There is more to life” and her No. 1 priority is “To settle down, get married, have a family.” But how do you just take the competitor out of one of the best golfers on the LPGA?

That’s why, despite the announcement, the 11x LPGA champ participated in the very first competition that she was eligible for– the Founder’s Cup– and finished with a T-9 position. Then, she again returned for her second outing of the year, the Ford Championship, outside Phoenix. And now is playing at the JM Eagle LA Championship. So, where exactly does the 2014 Chevron Cup Champion stand?

The suspicions of her active participation in the golfing world are still not clear. While she did announce the happy news back in January of saying “Yes” to Max Provost, the wedding isn’t on until next year. So can we expect the freshly engaged golfer to spend some more time competing on the greens? A fellow golfer has an answer.

In an interview with Colt Knost and Drew Stoltz on GOLF’s Subpar podcast, fellow LPGA pro Sarah Schmelzel shared her straight opinion. Stoltz asked Sarah, “Is Lexi retired or not?” Laughing, Schmelzel replied in four words, “Retired from full-time.” When Stoltz responded, “Oh.. just a part-time gig,” Sarah added, “Yeah, it’s a good gig to have… living the dream.”

Thompson’s selective appearances have exacerbated the uncertainty. She has participated in some competitions this year, despite stopping her full-time career, such as the Ford Championship in March, where she made the cut and displayed glimpses of her past excellence.

On the first day of the Ford Championship, Lexi slumped a little, coming at a 4-over. However, she refocused, made three straight birdies on 15, 16 and 17 to close with a bogey, giving her a 2-over 74. She carried the momentum on Friday and ended the event at T-38 for 11 under.

So far, at the JM Eagle LA Championship, she could not make the cut and will be looking to improve her standings by the time she tees up for her next. Although 2025 has not exactly gone her way, Lexi is positive that it soon will as she recently posted on her Instagram with a caption, “You’re allowed to be both…a work in progress and a masterpiece 🫶🏼” She has more events lined up where she can probably make an appearance.

Chevron, KPMG, and U.S. Women’s Open: Lexi Thompson’s choice

Even though she is semi-retired, Lexi Thompson is not abandoning the big leagues. Using her lifetime exemption from her 2014 victory, she has announced that she will compete in the 2025 Chevron Championship. She also guarantees her spots in the U.S. Women’s Open at Erin Hills and the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship with her current Rolex Ranking of No. 51.

Thompson’s decision to participate in these competitions guarantees that fans will continue to see her extraordinary abilities and passion for competition, even though she may not be on the Tour full-time.

No doubt, Thompson’s selective participation will be closely monitored during the 2025 season. Athletes looking for longevity and career fulfillment may find inspiration in her ability to strike a balance between her personal interests and competitive highs. For the time being, golf fans can look forward to Lexi Thompson’s return to the game, bringing her flair and intensity to the sport’s greatest stages.