Michelle Wie West, one of the most iconic figures in women’s golf, is set to end her competitive golf career after the U.S. Women’s Open at Pebble Beach. After close to 25 years in the spotlight, Wie West has had a remarkable career but fell short of the lofty expectations set for her. She will most likely finish her career with five L.P.G.A. Tour wins, including the 2014 Open at Pinehurst.
Wie West’s career started at a young age, with notable achievements such as winning the U.S. Women’s Amateur Public Links Championship at the age of 13. She turned professional at 15 and quickly made an impact, finishing in the top five in her first three majors as a pro. However, injuries and setbacks hindered her progress, leading to a career that was still impressive but not quite what many people expected.
Despite not achieving everything she wanted in her career, Wie West remains confident and satisfied with her accomplishments. She acknowledges that there were missed opportunities and things she could have done better, but dwelling on them would not be productive. She has made the decision to step away from elite competition, although she avoids using the term “retirement.”
Wie West’s transition has been a gradual process, with injuries and personal considerations playing a role in her decision. Last year, vulgar comments about her by Rudolph W. Giuliani prompted her to reflect on her purpose in the game. Ultimately, she realized that the toll on her body would prevent her from enjoying the game with her daughter in the future.
Retirement or transition from competition also means facing scrutiny and debate about her career. Wie West understands that people have their opinions and acknowledges that she didn’t win as much as she could have. However, she takes pride in earning a degree from Stanford and winning a U.S. Open, which were her personal goals. She also reflects on the various turning points and what-ifs in her career that could have led to different outcomes.
As she enters the final stages of her career, Wie West maintains measured expectations for the U.S. Women’s Open. The field is deep, with reigning champion Minjee Lee and rising star Rose Zhang among the competitors. Wie West’s group includes major winners In Gee Chun and Annika Sorenstam, adding to the challenge.
While the end of her competitive career is approaching, Wie West plans to remain connected to the sport. She recently hosted an L.P.G.A. tournament and fully appreciates the game that still captivates her. She still believes there is more to learn and improve in golf, even after all these years.
After nearly a quarter of a century in the spotlight, it’s time for Michelle Wie West to step away from competitive golf. Her career may not have fulfilled all the lofty expectations, but it has been filled with notable achievements and moments that have left an indelible mark on the sport. As she goes on to the next chapter of her life, she does so with confidence, gratitude, and a deep appreciation for the game of golf.