Golf’s Top-10 Prodigies

Mak Lok-lin, HK Golfer’s roving correspondent, reflects on his days as a wunderkind and profiles the players – both past and present - that did amazing things at an incredibly young age

4          Alexis Thompson
After winning the Junior PGA Championship in 2007 at the ripe old age of 12, “Lexi” became the youngest player ever to qualify for the US Women’s Open, although rounds of 76 and 82 meant she missed the cut by some margin. In 2008, she qualified again, but despite an improved showing she once again failed to make it to the weekend.

            2009 has so far proved to be a far more fruitful year for the 14-year-old. She finished in 21st place at the first Major of the season, the Kraft Nabisco, and then played all four rounds at the US Open. Indeed, after the second round, Thompson was lying only five shots off the lead, but a disappointing 78 on Saturday scuppered any title hopes. Nevertheless, her tie for 34th was a magnificent effort for one so young. These Major showings preceded the Junior Solheim Cup, where she won every match.

            Home-schooled since the age of 11, Thompson comes from a strong golfing family – her brother Nicholas has won more than US$3 million playing on the PGA and Nationwide tours – and is coached by the legendary Jim McLean.

 

HK Golfer PR: She seems to have it all, but watch this space…

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