Full Breakdown
Stacy Lewis Announces Retirement from LPGA Tour
9/18/2025, 1:17:18 PM
Announcement of Retirement
Stacy Lewis, a prominent figure in women's golf and former world No. 1, has announced that she will retire from the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) at the end of the 2025 season. The 40-year-old made this announcement via social media ahead of the Walmart NW Arkansas Championship, stating, "Never in a million years would I have thought this journey playing golf would still be going in 2025, but the time has come to put the clubs away." Lewis cited her physical condition as a significant factor in her decision, saying, "my body has told me it's time."
Career Highlights
Lewis has had a distinguished 17-year career on the LPGA Tour, securing 13 victories, including two major championships: the 2011 Kraft Nabisco Championship and the 2013 Women's British Open. She was named LPGA Player of the Year in 2012 and 2014 and spent a total of 25 weeks ranked as the world's top female golfer. Lewis also represented the United States in four Solheim Cups and served as captain in the 2023 and 2024 editions, leading the team to victory in the latter.
Background and Context
Diagnosed with scoliosis at age 11, Lewis underwent surgery and wore a back brace for 18 hours a day during her teenage years. Despite these challenges, she excelled at the University of Arkansas, where she was a four-time All-American and won the NCAA individual title. Her resilience and dedication have made her a role model in the sport, particularly for young female golfers.
Official Statements & Responses
In her retirement announcement, Lewis expressed gratitude for her journey and the support she received throughout her career. She stated, "I’m going to miss the LPGA Tour family and this part of my life, but my body has told me it’s time." She also encouraged her fellow players to continue advancing the LPGA, saying, "I’ve cared for the LPGA Tour like it was my own child... but to my fellow players, we aren’t done! I hope you all continue to push the tour forward."
Criticism & Opposition
While Lewis's retirement is viewed as a personal milestone, it also raises concerns about the future of women's golf, particularly as other established players like Brittany Lincicome and Lexi Thompson have also announced their retirements. Critics argue that the departure of such prominent figures could impact the visibility and growth of the LPGA Tour.
What's Next
As Lewis prepares for her final season, she looks forward to spending more time with her family, including her husband, Gerrod, and their daughter, Chesnee. Although she has not outlined specific plans post-retirement, her commitment to supporting the LPGA and women's golf remains evident.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Never in a million years would I have thought this journey playing golf would still be going in 2025, but the time has come to put the clubs away,” — Stacy Lewis
- “I’ve cared for the LPGA Tour like it was my own child and I’m so proud of the progress we have made, but to my fellow players, we aren’t done!” — Stacy Lewis
- “ She continued: “I’m going to miss the LPGA Tour family and this part of my life, but my body has told me it’s time.” — Stacy Lewis
Stacy Lewis's retirement marks the end of an era in women's golf, highlighting her significant contributions to the sport while also signaling a transition period for the LPGA Tour.
