Lexi Thompson is one of the faces of the LPGA and women’s golf, and for good reason. She is one of the more talented women we have ever seen on tour. Thompson has 15 career professional victories, 11 of which have come on the LPGA Tour, including a major win at the 2014 Kraft Nabisco Championship.
But that is hardly the only reason why she is a key figure helping drive popularity in women’s golf.
Seemingly every time fans watch her on television, she has a smile on her face. That effervescent personality jumps off the screen and into people’s homes.
Well, I can attest to her authenticity and likability, as well as her intentions.
I was recently flown out to Panther National in West Palm Beach, Florida, where Thompson had been named an Ambassador of the Jack Nicklaus and Justin Thomas-designed course.
“I am an Ambassador of Panther National. Once they reached out and JT [Justin Thomas] and Jack [Nicklaus] want me to be a part of it, I’m like ‘yes, sign me up.’”
“It’s a huge honor just to be out here… it’s an amazing layout and practice facility for me,” Thompson said in an exclusive interview with Playing Through.
She was there for a photo shoot with her new golf ball partner, Maxfli.
Thompson is partnering with Maxfli as her exclusive ball provider for the 2024 season and will play the proven Maxfli Tour ball at each event this year.
During my time there, I was able to gain insight into what makes Lexi, well — Lexi. It was both enlightening and encouraging.
Maxfli to help Lexi Thompson take game to new heights
Thompson is looking to take her game to a new level in 2024. When her partnership with Bridgestone lapsed, she was in need of a new ball to play.
Enter Maxfli.
“When they reached out, I instantly started testing golf balls and when I saw the results, it was an easy, no-brainer decision.”
“Spin numbers were better, distance was better and around the greens I gained more feel. So, I couldn’t have asked for anything more from a golf ball,” said Thompson giddily.
Her goals and aspirations also align with Maxfli, which made this a seamless fit.
“Their passion for the game is what I have for it. Their strive to always keep on improving — technology, to improve the game of golf in general, that’s what I want to be a part of and affiliated with.”
From all accounts, this looks to be a long-lasting relationship.
But Thompson’s goals are not solely performance-driven, even though she’s confident her elevated game will help with her other key aspiration; growing the game.
Lexi Thompson helping LPGA, women’s golf grow
In 2021, the LPGA Tour doled out just under $70 million in total prize money. This year, that has grown to a record $118 million. That is almost a 70 percent growth in just three years.
Any business making that kind of leap deserves recognition. And the LPGA does it the right way.
Last week, Sports Business Journal named the LPGA one of the top places in all of sports to work. That came to fruition based on its outstanding leadership and high employee satisfaction.
Thompson showed an understanding and appreciation for the recent ascension.
“It’s an inspiration to be a part of the women’s game. It’s moving in such a great direction. On the LPGA Tour, we have gained tournament sponsorships, tv coverage, prize money — Even just the game on the women’s side recreationally has grown so much,” Thompson said.
“It’s great to see kids picking up a club at a younger age. I think that’s a big reason for all of the golf programs… LPGA has golf programs, PGA Junior League, LPGA Girls Golf Program… it’s amazing to see.”
“Being a part of that movement, that’s why I started the game. I loved it at a young age and I want to leave it in a better place as I go through my career.”
Indeed, Thompson was immersed in golf having grown up on a course in Coral Springs, Florida.
She detailed how watching her brothers play instilled a sense of determination and drive to be the best. But it was in that moment that I was witness to how self-aware Thompson is.
“I am thankful and blessed… Any way that I can give back, whether it’s growing the game or to [help] people that aren’t as fortunate, I know that I am very much am, so any way I can give them their opportunity to live their best life, that’s what I want to do.”
Most people are not born living on golf courses. They do not have the same access to clubs, courses, instruction, and so forth.
It was with that understanding that she took it upon herself to do what she believed was right; to give back.
