Lorena

I must admit that I was surprised, but not shocked when I heard the news yesterday that Lorena is going to retire.  She has always said she would play for maybe 10 years and then leave the game to start a family.  She just got married and obviously feels that she is ready for that next chapter in her life.  She has accomplished so much in such a short time, and has other business endeavors that have become more of her focus.  This includes an amazing foundation and school for children.  I know she plans to grow these areas.

 

I understand completely what she is going through because I have just gone through this myself.  Though I was older than Lorena, it is still hard to play and play at the level you demand of yourself when your heart and mind are somewhere else.  While the LPGA will certainly miss her great play, warm demeanor and smile, I am personally very happy for her.  The most rewarding days are ahead of her and I wish her all the best.

Comments

[Annika the Cat]

There is one thing we all can count on - change. Time sure passes fast. I still can't believe Lorena is not a rookie!

Looks like the pressure in now on AtC. First 50 something player to ever qualify for the LPGA Tour @ Q school fueled by The ANNIKA Academy! Please don't tell me there is an age restriction. ☺

Go Lorena! Go Annika! And Good Luck to AtC!

[Jeremy]

Tour golf must be a tougher grind than we imagine for the top golfer to give it up.

[Buzz]

Annika.....doesn't this mean that she is also giving up her opportunity to be inducted into the HOF?
If so, then I feel badly for her...she really deserves to be there with you.
If whatever her future plans are make her happy then I'm with her 100%....just like I was behind your decision 100%. And no one appears happier then you + Michael and Ava.

Take care

[christine]

I commend Lorena for her decison. She can always come back to golf later. Much happiness to Lorena and her family. Annika, Ava is a doll baby!

[Daniele Pulga]

I just starting playing golf and immediatly have the opportunity to see her in HSBC in Singapore

I decide to be her fan becuse the 1st day at the driving range i was very lost about this new world and she smile to me

after that at the hole n.6 she pass to me the ball she was using

and now?!? she is leaving...
of course I wish her all the best but i'm sad

I hope I can go to evian in france next july to see her again :-)

[Golf54deciple]

Annika,
I always had the sense that Lorena would not play anywhere near as long as you did because it seemed like once she saw you "step away" she was able to say to herself, "Yes, I want to be able to move on to other things--on my terms.

I think it might have been very LIBERATING to see you ready to explore life with Mike and an ever-increasing Team of the highest quality people.

I always felt that like you, Lorena was willing to accept the "responsibility" of being at top. She had wealth and possessions long before turning Pro so it's not like getting a lot of stuff for the sake of stuff was her goal--she knew she would be giving back during her playing days and a greater calling in the days to come.

Look what influence you've already had in just over a year--INCREDIBLE!! With almost every week the announcement of more outreach to others--AMAZING!!

When you get to talk with her, give her our best--we cheer her on just like we have you!

[Chris Condon]

Lorena seems a little young for retirement. I am reminded that Kim Clijsters and Justine Henin retired at a young age, then came back. Maybe we will see Lorena back too. Keep your fingers crossed. In case Lorena doesn't come back, I am glad I got a chance to see her play several times when I did.

[Eric Bowne]

Every time I witness a professional playing golf who is truly passionate about the sport and has the ability to display their heartfelt desire to share their talent I can't help but feel lucky. To put yourself on display for the world to see for 5, 10, 20 years is a gift for those who appreciate the game and it's true metaphor for life. I will never complain about Lorena or Annika retiring because we all have have our path and I feel lucky they shared theirs with us for a while. The only thing I can say is THANK YOU!

It isn't the size of the gift that matters, but the size of the heart that gives it. ~Eileen Elias Freeman

[Evelyn]

So sad to read about Lorena's decision, only time will tell if it was the right choice, and of course; she can always come back!

As a Mexican, as a Swedish resident and as a woman, I can only tell you that I'm really proud of both of you. Ha det bra!

[Anna Lesemann]

Annika, I feel the same way you do about Lorena leaving the LPGA.

[Annika]

Thanks to all of you for your kind words. As a fan of golf, I can understand how we all miss seeing people compete. But as I said I am happy for Lorena. She will give so much to so many through the next chapter.

Just like with me, golf was a great platform to go places and see things and meet great people like all of you. But it's also a nice vehicle to use to give back.

Lorena will not go away. She will continue to do great things from "outside the ropes."

[Golf54deciple]

Silly it true but I'm waiting for Mike to make a "post" so we can talk football !

Don't care what the prognosticators say, Tim Tebow with the Broncos will be a great team.

Can't wait for him to prove them all wrong!!