Major champion Lexi Thompson reveals exciting news for herself and her "forever and always"

Lexi Thompson just officially retired from professional golf, and she's already taken a major step in her personal life. She and her partner have gotten engaged.

The last professional tournament for Thompson was the Grant Thornton Invitational on December 15. On January 1, she announced her new relationship status. Thompson announced her engagement by posting:

"The best part of my trip to Whistler …. I said YES to my forever and always."

The 2014 Chevron Championship winner's life has been dominated by golf. Thompson has been playing since she was 12 and has been a professional since 17. The 29-year-old was finally able to take a step back in retirement and celebrate a major milestone for her.

Nelly Korda, the world number one golfer and fellow Team USA Solheim Cup star, commented to share her happiness about the move. The LPGA Tour's official Instagram account also congratulated Thompson for getting engaged.

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Lexi Thompson said goodbye to her longtime sport

Several months ago, Lexi Thompson shocked the world by saying she planned to retire at the end of the season. The end of the season officially arrived, and Thompson didn't change her mind.

Lexi Thompson is officially retired (Image via Imagn)

She did offer the caveat that she wasn't putting her clubs down entirely, just that she was no longer going to be a full-time player. That might mean that Lexi Thompson will play some events next year.

When her final official tournament came and went, Thompson finally reflected on saying goodbye to golf. She said (via NBC Sports):

“I’ve held a lot in. I think as athletes you’re always told to be strong and be intimidating on the golf course. Don’t show any sign the weakness."

She did just that "for a while" before finally letting it get to her:

“It’s hard. It’s not just me, it’s everybody that goes through a lot of things. It’s just a matter of how much you’re willing to hold in and let people in on your emotions. It’s kind of like the time I’m actually letting myself feel those emotions and actually be real.”

Thompson was a fan favorite during her career, something she says is as valuable if not more than the wins she earned on the course. Her accolades are important, but knowing that she had the support of everyone was even more paramount.

The American added:

"I wanted to leave a bigger impact as a role model, somebody who gave back to the game, somebody who made an impact on little girls and boys out here getting started in the game at a young age."

It remains to be seen, aside from her recent engagement, what Thompson will do next in golf.