Lexi Thompson prepares for her seventh (and most likely) last Solheim Cup

Lexi Thompson is gearing up to represent Team USA for the seventh time at the 2024 Solheim Cup, an event that means so much to her. As she prepares to step away from the sport next year, she reflects on the profound impact the Solheim Cup has had on her life, career, and legacy.

Thompson, who announced earlier this year that she would be stepping back from competitive golf, expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to compete one more time for her country. In a press conference on Wednesday, she highlighted how this event has shaped her career. "Some of my best memories are at the Solheim Cup. It’s important to represent my country," she said. "To tee it up and represent my country alongside my teammates, there’s nothing like it. To be on U.S. soil, it’s a huge honor to be part of it."

Nothing like getting to represent her country

The Solheim Cup, in particular, has been a source of inspiration and a beacon of hope for Thompson, especially after she made the decision to scale back her competitive schedule. "Every time there’s a chance to represent my country, I want to be on that team. That’s my number one goal," she emphasised. "Even though I had my announcement on my mind, I wanted to be here on U.S. soil, being able to represent my country."

The emotions tied to potentially playing her final Solheim Cup are significant for Thompson, though she remains focused on the task at hand. When asked about the emotional weight of the event, especially after what could have been her last AIG Women’s Open, she replied, "I haven’t been emotional this week. I’ve just been having a lot of fun alongside my teammates and assistant captains and captain."

Solheim Cup offers a different pressure

For Thompson, it’s not just about competing but also the friendships and experiences she’s gained over the years. "Solheim Cups bring a different pressure that we’re not used to week in and week out," she reflected. "I think that’s what we build off of this week, that we can perform any type of shot under that type of circumstance. That’s what I’ve learned about myself – that I can do anything I put my mind to on the golf course as long as I’m in the right mindset."

Though Thompson may be stepping away from full-time competition, she has not ruled out remaining involved with the U.S. team in some capacity. "I haven’t thought too much ahead, but of course I’d love to be still a part of it in any way," she said. "I know how special it’s meant to me and how many memories and relationships I’ve made throughout the Solheim Cup."

The changing face of women's golf

As one of the most recognisable faces in women’s golf since turning professional in 2010, Thompson has also witnessed the sport’s evolution. "It’s truly amazing to see just how far the women’s game has come," she remarked. "The increase in purses, the amount of coverage we get – it’s really incredible to watch over the years. It’s because of players that are up here who helped build the game and signed the autographs and really get a club in young girls’ hands."

Heading into this year’s Solheim Cup, the U.S. team is rallying behind their motto of "unfinished business," a sentiment that resonates deeply with Thompson. "We know what we have to do. We have to go out there and play some great golf, and we’re willing to do so and bring some positive energy."

As Thompson prepares to step back from competitive golf, her legacy as a competitor and team player remains firmly cemented in Solheim Cup history. This week, as she takes to the course alongside her teammates, she’ll be savouring every moment, grateful for the chance to once again represent her country on one of golf’s biggest stages. "Representing your country is the highest honor that you’ll possibly get on the golf course," she said. "I’m just grateful to be a part of it."

Women & Golf will be reporting direct from Robert Trent Jones Golf Club - find out more about the 2024 Solheim Cup here.