Hosting an LPGA event this week in her native Mexico, Lorena Ochoa appears to have no lingering doubts about her decision to step away from the sport while at the top of her game.
‘I wouldn’t change this for anything,’ she explained to reporters at this week’s Lorena Ochoa Invitational in Guadalajara, where she is making just her second competitive appearance of 2012. ‘I’m happy with what I’m doing.’
A winner of 27 events on the LPGA from 2004-2009, Ochoa epitomized the notion of ‘going out on top’ when, at age 28, she abruptly retired in April 2010 while still the top-ranked player in the world. More than two years removed from that decision, Ochoa shows no signs of changing her mind.
‘I don’t see myself again on the LPGA Tour,’ she added. ‘It’s a tough schedule.’
After marrying in 2009, one of the main motivations for Ochoa’s decision was a desire to start a family. She missed playing in her own event last year due to the birth of her son Pedro in December, and this week hinted that more children may be in her future.
‘I’m happy having a son,’ she noted. ‘Hopefully, our family will grow next year.’
Ochoa made her 2012 competitive debut last month, tying for 22nd in the LET French Open in which she played largely due to her existing relationship with title sponsor Lacoste. Thursday, she opened with a 1-under 71 at Guadalajara Country Club to tie for 16th among the 36-player field, five shots behind a trio of co-leaders that includes 2009 champion Michelle Wie.
