Natalie Gulbis, one of the LPGA Tour’s most visible stars who has played on the circuit since 2001, said she might retire as soon as next year.
The 32-year-old Gulbis, who grew up in Citrus Heights near Sacramento, told reporters the she plans to retire once she and husband Josh Rodarmel, whom she married in December 2013, start a family.
“Until I have kids, so hopefully I have kids sooner than later,” Gulbis said when asked how much longer she might play. She added that she will play “at least through this year.”
Gulbis, who has been troubled by back injuries for much of her career, turned pro when she was 18 and is in the midst of her 15th season on the LPGA. Her only victory came in the 2007 Evian Masters, which is now an LPGA Tour major.
While Gulbis said she admires players such as Juli Inkster, Pat Hurst and others who returned to the LPGA Tour after having children, that is not in her plans.
“I don’t think so,” Gulbis said. “Maybe coming back out to cheer for the younger players.”
Gulbis is 49th on the LPGA’s career money list with nearly $4.9 million.
