Amy Olson, Twice Major Runner-Up, Retires at 31

At Glance

‣ Amy Olson, a professional golfer on the LPGA Tour, has announced her retirement after an 11-year career, choosing to focus on the next chapter of her life following maternity leave.

‣ Despite not winning a professional tournament, Olson had a notable career with two runner-up finishes at Majors, demonstrating her competitive spirit and skill at the highest levels of women’s golf.

‣ Olson’s decision to retire was met with support and well-wishes from the golf community, including fellow golfers and the official LPGA Tour account, highlighting her impact on the sport and her peers.

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Amy Olson, a name synonymous with grit on the LPGA Tour, is hanging up her clubs. After an 11-year hustle on the greens, she’s calling it quits. The 31-year-old powerhouse hasn’t swung in competition since the 2023 US Women’s Open. Picture this: seven months pregnant and she’s out there, competing. But, alas, Pebble Beach was her swan song before maternity leave beckoned.

Now, she’s made it official. No more teeing off for Olson. She took to social media, her words resonating with finality: “What. A. Ride.” She’s not just stepping back; she’s leaping into a whole new chapter. Her announcement was heartfelt, a sincere thank you to everyone who’s been part of her journey. And she’s optimistic, ending with “The best is yet to come!!”

The reactions? They poured in. Brooke Henderson, with her two Major titles, sent love on Instagram: “Congratulations Amy!! Enjoy your next chapter!!” Kelly Tan, from Malaysia, chimed in too. She called Amy an amazing friend and competitor, already feeling the void Olson’s departure will leave. Even the LPGA Tour’s official account couldn’t resist a shout-out, eager to see where Amy’s path leads next.

For those who’ve tracked her career, Olson’s story is one of near misses but incredible feats. Turning pro in 2013 after her time at North Dakota State University, she made her mark. Though a tournament win eluded her, she was no stranger to the pressure of Majors. Remember the 2018 Amundi Evian Championship? Or the nail-biter at the 2020 US Women’s Open? Both times, she was so close, finishing T2.

Her journey wasn’t just about the near wins, though. Olson also boasted top-ten finishes, like at the 2018 Chevron Championship and the CME Group Tour Championship that same year. And then, amidst the highs and lows of professional golf, life gifted her a new role. Last September, she shared the arrival of Carly Gray Olson, her baby daughter. “Our world just got a whole lot cuter,” she wrote, a testament to the joy and gratitude filling her life.

So, what’s next for Amy Olson? Only time will tell. But one thing’s for sure: her legacy on the LPGA Tour, marked by resilience and grace under pressure, will inspire future generations. As for us fans, we’ll be watching, eager to cheer her on in whatever she tackles next. And, hey, don’t forget to subscribe to the Golf Monthly newsletter. You wouldn’t want to miss out on all the latest from the world of golf, right?

Elliott Mitchell
Elliott Mitchell
Elliott Mitchell is a Golf Glance Senior Writer. After earning a degree in Sports Journalism, he joined the club in 2021. Elliott is in charge of Golf Glance's news, features, and travel sections, as well as the courses.

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