Professional golfer Lexi Thompson faces another heartbreaking family loss, announcing the death of her grandfather just hours after missing the cut at the Ford Championship in Arizona.
The LPGA veteran took to Instagram to share the devastating news with fans and supporters. Thompson expressed gratitude for the tournament week before revealing the personal tragedy that awaited her return home.
"Thank you to the sponsors, volunteers and fans this week in Arizona at the @ford_champ_ for making it possible. Thank you to Ford for everything you've done to show your support of womens golf, we greatly appreciate the partnership with you," Thompson wrote on her Instagram account.
The post took a somber turn as Thompson shared the unexpected loss. "Then landing home this morning to find out the news of my grandfather passing away has been tough. Not sure exactly when I'll play again. But what's more important is being home and doing what's best for me anymore and being there for my family. RIP Poppop," she added in the emotional tribute.
The Ford Championship, featuring a substantial $2.25 million prize purse, had generated considerable excitement around Thompson's participation. However, the 11-time LPGA Tour winner struggled to find her rhythm throughout the week in Arizona.
This latest family tragedy echoes Thompson's challenging 2017 season, which was marked by multiple personal difficulties. That year brought a controversial four-stroke penalty at the ANA Inspiration that cost her a major championship, alongside her mother Judy's cancer treatment.
During that tumultuous period, Thompson also lost her grandmother, prompting her to step away from social media temporarily. In an emotional Instagram post from 2017, she opened up about the accumulated stress of the year.
"I will miss your goodluck/LOL (lots of love) texts before or after my rounds , doing your nails, or just sitting outside on the patio in the fresh air with you. The lord has taken you to a better place with hopefully the most beautiful garden because I know that's what you loved. How I saw you yesterday will not be how I remember you I will always remember your beautiful spirit, your laugh and smile . I know you'll always be watching over us with your true love R.I.P Nana Everybody I'm very sorry but this has been a very hard year emotionally for me and I'm going to step away from social media for a bit," Thompson wrote during that difficult time.
The American golfer, who turned professional at just 15 years old, captured her first LPGA victory at 16 in 2011. Her remarkable career trajectory established her as one of the tour's most recognizable figures, accumulating 11 LPGA titles over her professional journey.
In 2024, Thompson announced a semi-retirement from competitive golf, citing the need to prioritize her mental health and personal well-being. The decision reflected her growing awareness of life's priorities beyond professional achievements.
Despite her reduced schedule, Thompson had planned to continue competing selectively in 2025 and 2026, hoping to add more victories to her impressive resume. However, her grandfather's passing has understandably shifted her immediate focus entirely to family matters.
The golf community has consistently rallied around Thompson during her most challenging moments, offering support through various personal hardships over the years. Her openness about mental health struggles and family difficulties has resonated with fans and fellow competitors alike.
As Thompson navigates this latest loss, her timeline for returning to competitive golf remains uncertain. Her Instagram statement suggests she's taking an indefinite break to grieve properly and support her family through this difficult transition.
The LPGA Tour will undoubtedly miss Thompson's presence in upcoming events, but her decision to prioritize family during this mourning period reflects the maturity and perspective she's developed throughout her career's ups and downs.