Lexi Thompson’s Heartfelt Tribute to Her Loyal Companion Sparks Emotion Amid

Lexi Thompson’s Emotional Return to Golf: The Unseen Anchor Behind Her Comeback

In the high-stakes world of professional golf, few moments capture the raw emotion of Lexi Thompson’s journey quite like her tearful departure from the 2023 U.S. Women’s Open. Yet, while the public eye often fixates on her triumphs and setbacks on the green, there’s an unsung hero who has been her constant companion through it all—her beloved dog, Leo.

As Thompson stages her return at the Ford Championship, she takes a poignant moment to shine a light on Leo. In a heartfelt Instagram post, she describes him as her “best little friend ever.” This touching tribute comes as she resumes competitive golf after taking a break from full-time competition in late 2024.

The timing of her heartfelt post is no accident. It coincides with her participation at the Ford Championship’s Pro-Am day, marking her official return to the sport she loves. For many athletes, pets offer an unparalleled emotional refuge amidst the relentless pressures of professional sports. Leo has undoubtedly been this rock for Thompson, especially during the most turbulent phases of her career.

Leo became a part of Thompson’s life at a crucial juncture, just as she began grappling with mental health challenges that ultimately led her to step back from the competitive scene. Throughout her career’s ups and downs, this steadfast canine companion has been her unwavering support, providing the “unconditional love every day” she so cherishes.

Lexi Thompson’s Rocky Road Back to the LPGA Tour

Thompson’s journey back to the LPGA Tour has been anything but straightforward. Having turned professional at just 15, she quickly rose to stardom with 11 LPGA Tour victories, including a major win at the 2014 Kraft Nabisco Championship. However, the mounting pressures of the sport eventually took a toll on her well-being.

In October 2024, Thompson made the difficult decision to retire from full-time competition, citing the loneliness of tour life and a pressing need to focus on her personal health. “Since I was 12 years old, my life as a golfer has been a whirlwind of constant attention, scrutiny, and pressure,” she explained at the time.

But her love for the game brought her back. Earlier this year, she made a surprising return at the 2025 Founders Cup, finishing tied for 13th at 9-under par. This impressive performance boosted her Rolex Women’s World Golf Ranking to 50th by March 2025. Two-time Solheim Cup captain Stacy Lewis praised her improvements, noting, “Looks great, more in control, and just hitting her irons much better than most of what I saw last year.”