Every journey has a beginning and an end, and no matter how long or glorious the time at your career peak is, a day comes when you have to hang your boots. Some athletes exit the stage after amassing almost every possible accolade in their careers, while others succumb to injuries or pressures of life. Truth be told, it takes a lot of work to compete at the highest level of golf. Exceptionally talented players join professional tours each year, adding a level of competitiveness that can burn out even the most seasoned veterans. Join us as we cover famous male and female golfers who have taken their final bows and announced retirement this year.
Notable Golfers Who Have Retired This Year
Mark O’Meara
Two-time major winner Mark O’Meara holed out his final pro putt at the PURE Insurance Championship in September 2024. This ended a remarkable 44-year pro career. The World Golf Hall of Famer achieved many fetes during his run, such as 16 PGA TOUR wins and spent around 200 weeks in the top 10 of the Official World Golf Ranking. 1998 was one of O’Meara’s best years, as he won both the Masters Tournament and the Open Championship.
Lexi Thompson
In May 2024, LPGA Tour star Lexi Thompson surprised many when she announced retirement from professional golf at the end of the season after a remarkable 14-year run. The 2014 Chevron Championship winner first qualified for the U.S. Women’s Open at age 12 and then turned professional in 2010 at age 15. Although many fans feel Thompson has called time relatively early, she boasts 11 LPGA Tour titles and 2 LET wins.
Catriona Matthew
During the 2024 AIG Women’s British Open, Catriona Matthew, the winningest Scot in LPGA Tour history, made her 30th and final appearance. She is fondly remembered for winning the 2009 Women’s British Open. This was surprisingly just 11 weeks after giving birth to her second child. Matthew also helped Great Britain and Ireland win the Curtis Cup and led Europe to two stunning Solheim Cup victories.
Bernard Langer
Bernard Langer is one of the most decorated players on this list, with accolades such as two major championships, three PGA TOUR wins, 42 European Tour victories, 12 senior major championships, and 47 PGA TOUR Champions wins. During the 2024 BMW International Open, the German professional golfer said goodbye to the DP World Tour after a stunning 50-year run and 513 appearances. However, he may continue playing on the PGA Champions TOUR until 2025.
