After being bested by Lilia Vu in a three-way playoff at the Meijer LPGA Classic, Thompson continued her strong performance with a four-under 68 in the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship, leading after the first round of a major for the first time in her 13-year career.
“I don’t think [retirement] has anything to do with it,” Thompson said. “It’s about being comfortable and enjoying the game.”
Thompson discovered a swing adjustment last Tuesday that helped her relax and play more freely. Over her last five rounds, she has hit 78.9 percent of greens in regulation, significantly above her season average of 70.5 percent, including 14 greens in her opening round at Sahalee Country Club.
She also credited her success to working with long-time friend and caddie Mark Wallington, whose positive affirmations keep her relaxed. The pair made key birdies to force and compete in a playoff at Blythefield Country Club last week.
Thompson maintained her momentum in Washington, hitting birdies on her first three holes and finishing the front nine with a four-under 32. Despite hitting only six fairways, she managed six birdies, tying Nelly Korda for the most birdies on Thursday.
“I’m just trying to stay in the moment,” Thompson said. “Visualize small targets and capitalize on birdie opportunities.”
This marks Thompson’s first major contention since the 2022 Women’s PGA, where she lost a two-stroke lead with three holes remaining. She has struggled in majors recently, making only one cut in the last seven. Her last major victory was at the 2014 ANA Inspiration.
When asked if a major win might change her retirement plans, Thompson remained non-committal. “I’m taking it one day at a time,” she said. “Golf is unpredictable, so I’m not looking too far ahead.”
