Lexi Thompson Falls Just Short of Making PGA Tour Cut at Shriners Children’s Open
Lexi Thompson, one of the biggest names in women’s golf, made waves this week as she competed in the PGA Tour’s Shriners Children’s Open. The 26-year-old looked poised to make history and become the first woman to make a PGA Tour cut since 1945. While she fell just short of achieving that milestone, Thompson’s performance on the course showed her incredible talent and left a lasting impact on both fans and fellow players.
Thompson began her second round on the edge of the cutline, needing a strong performance to secure her spot for the weekend. She started strong, carding back-to-back birdies on holes 1 and 2, which put her at 2-under with seven holes remaining. At that point, it seemed likely that she would surpass the projected cut.
However, trouble struck on the par-3 fifth hole when Thompson’s drive landed in the penalty area well right of the green. This resulted in a bogey, and she followed it up with another bogey on the par-3 eighth hole. Despite her best efforts, Thompson finished at even par, falling short of the cutline, which ended up at 3-under.
Although Thompson didn’t achieve her goal of making the cut, her performance was noteworthy. She became just the second woman to card a round in the 60s on the PGA Tour, following Michelle Wie West’s two rounds of 68 at the Sony Open. Thompson’s ability to hold her own on the PGA Tour is a testament to her skill and determination.
Thompson’s inclusion in the tournament was made possible by a sponsor’s exemption. While she may not have won on the LPGA Tour since 2019 and currently holds the 25th ranking in the world, Thompson is renowned for her long drives. Her power off the tee makes her a formidable player on any course, including those set up for men’s tournaments.
With an average driving distance of 300.75 yards during the tournament, Thompson proved that she belongs among the longest hitters in the game, as the average driving distance on the PGA Tour for the 2022-23 season was 299.8 yards.
Thompson’s presence at the Shriners Children’s Open was not only a major talking point in the golf world but also a way to bring more attention to the tournament and its participants. Her appearance on the broadcast undoubtedly drew more eyes to the event, shining a spotlight on both the players and the sponsors associated with the tournament.
Thompson’s journey in golf began at a young age when she made history as the youngest player to qualify for the U.S. Women’s Open at just 12 years old in 2008. She went on to record her first LPGA victory at 16, becoming the youngest-ever winner on tour. With 11 LPGA wins, including one major title, Thompson has cemented her place as one of the sport’s top competitors.
Although Thompson fell short of making the PGA Tour cut, her experience at the Shriners Children’s Open will undoubtedly have a lasting impact. Her performance showcased her immense talent and further demonstrated the progress women have made in breaking down barriers in professional golf. Thompson’s courage and skill will continue to inspire young golfers, as she looks to make her mark on future tournaments.