Thu May 29 19:00:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article based on the provided text:
**Lexi Thompson Makes Unexpected Return to U.S. Open After Announcing Retirement**
**OAKMONT, PA** – Lexi Thompson, the face of women’s golf, is set to make her 19th consecutive appearance at the U.S. Women’s Open this week, a surprising development after announcing her retirement at the end of the 2025 season last year. Thompson’s decision to curtail her competition schedule sent ripples through the golfing world in 2024, but the 30-year-old superstar qualified to play in the field off the Rolex Rankings.
Thompson has been a dominant force on the LPGA Tour since turning professional in 2010, winning her first event the following year. She has amassed 11 LPGA Tour victories and 91 career top-10 finishes, earning $14.9 million over the past 15 years. She also represented the United States six times in the Solheim Cup and competed in the Olympics in 2016 and 2021.
Despite her relatively young age, Thompson’s dedication to the sport and consistent performance have taken their toll, leading to her earlier retirement announcement. The pressure of high-level competition and near-constant travel over the last decade has likely factored into the decision to step away.
“Lexi’s impact extends far beyond the golf course. She embodies the spirit and dedication of our founders,” said LPGA Commissioner Mollie Marcoux Samaan in a statement released last year.
Thompson’s 19th U.S. Open appearance puts her in rare company. To provide context, Greg Norman has played in 19 U.S. Opens. He is 70.
Golf fans will eagerly watch Thompson compete in what is expected to be one of her final appearances on a major stage. While it is unknown if Thompson has plans to compete in the tournament again, it is confirmed that the LPGA Tour, the Solheim Cup, and the dedicated fans will surely miss her once she steps away from the game.
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