Lexi Thompson falls short by 3 shots at Shriners Children’s Open
In a captivating turn of events at the Shriners Children’s Open, renowned golfer Lexi Thompson came close to achieving a historic feat, but narrowly missed the cut by a mere three strokes. Her performance ignited excitement and admiration in the world of golf as she aspired to become the first woman in 78 years to make the cut at a PGA Tour event.
Chasing History
Lexi Thompson, an eleven-time winner on the LPGA Tour, showcased her golfing prowess at the TPC Summerlin in Las Vegas. Her impressive two-under 69 in the second round of the Shriners Children’s Open included five birdies, demonstrating her exceptional skill and determination.
However, despite her remarkable performance, Thompson fell just three strokes short of the cut line, finishing at three under par for the tournament. Her quest to make history by joining an elite group of women who have succeeded on the PGA Tour came heartbreakingly close, yet fell shy of the mark.
A Historic Pursuit
The 28-year-old Thompson holds a special place in golf history as only the seventh woman to compete in a PGA Tour event in the last five years, thanks to a sponsors’ invitation. The last woman to achieve a 36-hole cut in a PGA Tour event was Babe Didrikson Zaharias in 1945. Michelle Wie West, who made eight PGA Tour starts, missed the cut in all of her appearances.
Thompson expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, saying, “It’s an amazing feeling, not only to have my parents out here to support me, but just to be able to come here and follow my dreams. It’s something I wanted to do. I played against my brothers growing up, and all the guys were so welcoming, so I’m very grateful for that.”
She further emphasized the significance of the Shriners Children’s Open and its mission: “That’s what this tournament is all about, and what Shriners does is give the opportunity for these kids to live their best life. It’s the best feeling. Just seeing the amount of kids out there screaming, ‘go Lexi!’ It makes me tear up sometimes because that’s what I played for, to inspire these little kids – boys and girls – to get a club in their hand or follow their dreams, whether it’s golf or anything in life. I’m happy I’m doing so. Hopefully, it inspires them to go after what they want.”
A Glimpse of History
Thompson’s performance on Friday was only the third time a woman has posted a round in the 60s on the PGA Tour. Michelle Wie shot a 68 (-2) twice in 2004 and 2006 at the Sony Open.
Despite her incredible run, Thompson had to return early on Friday to finish her first round, as Thursday’s action was suspended due to darkness. Her journey, filled with inspiration and determination, will continue to be a source of motivation for aspiring golfers and sports enthusiasts.
