Why is Lexi Thompson not in the field for the 2024 Evian Championship?

Lexi Thompson is set to skip the Evian Championship once again, continuing her notable absence from the fourth women’s Major of the season. Currently ranked 33rd in the world, Thompson is one of seven players within the top 50 not participating in the 2024 event.

Thompson last competed in the France-based championship in 2019 but missed the cut for the second consecutive year. Following her performance, she posted a frustrated message on Instagram, stating, “To play well today, hit one bad golf shot, but hit three iron shots right at the pin 5 ft at one point then end up 40+ ft….umm really? I’m actually very thankful that I don’t have to put myself thru that for another two days. You’re a beautiful place Evian but that’s just too many bad breaks with good shots for me, so bye @evianchamp ! #justnotforme #allgood #onward.” This post was quickly deleted and replaced with a clarifying statement expressing her frustration with not playing well in a major and the unfortunate bounces in golf.

Since the event’s promotion to Major status in 2013, Thompson achieved a third-place finish, a T10 result, and a runner-up finish in her first three appearances. However, her performances declined with T22 and T48 finishes in 2016 and 2017, respectively. After the event was canceled in 2020 due to Covid, Thompson has not returned to the Evian Resort.

Despite her resurgence in form, Thompson has opted out of this year’s championship. Her decision is surprising, considering her announcement to retire from full-time professional golf at the end of the season. Since revealing her plans, Thompson has finished T2 at the Meijer LPGA Classic, T9 at the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship, and T8 at the Dow Championship alongside Brooke Henderson.

Thompson’s choice not to compete in the Evian Championship highlights the challenges and strategic decisions professional golfers face regarding tournament participation. Her absence, along with other top players, underscores the complexity of scheduling and personal priorities in the sport.

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