Lydia Ko Shares Surprising Approach to Her Final LPGA Goodbye

Lydia Ko has a plan for her LPGA goodbye. But it is not the grand farewell many expect from a Hall of Famer. Ko revealed her preference for a quiet, controlled exit from the sport she has dominated for years.

With that approach, the 2024 AIG Women’s Open winner told Golfweek on Thursday, “I personally don’t want a parade of retirement,” making it clear that she prefers a simple and controlled exit rather than an extended farewell. While most fans want to celebrate their favorite golfers at the time of their retierement, but in the case of Ko, it’s the complete opposite.

The LPGA Hall of Famer wants to acknowledge the people who have followed her journey and create a chance for them to watch her compete one last time.

That decision, in fact, goes back to the early days of her professional career, as Ko told Golfweek just two days after receiving her first paycheck in 2013 that she did not plan to play beyond the age of 30. She turns 29 next month, so it looks like there’s a good chance that she may not compete past 2027.

The Olympic gold medalist is currently competing at the LPGA Fortinet Founders Cup in Menlo Park, California. She also entered the 2026 season as an equipment free agent after choosing not to renew a club contract following the end of her previous deal.

As her retirement plan takes shape, it also shifts focus to the path that led her here.

What Will Ko Do Outside of Golf?

Having played golf since she was 5, it’s no surprise that Ko might want a change. Last year, when she spoke to Golf Monthly, she reiterated her plan: she won’t play beyond 30.