Anthony Kim’s Epic Redemption: First Win in 16 Years at LIV Golf Adelaide After Overcoming Addiction and Injury
ADELAIDE, Australia – Anthony Kim etched his name into golf history on Sunday by clinching the individual title at LIV Golf Adelaide, marking his first professional victory in nearly 16 years after a remarkable comeback from injuries, addiction, and a 12-year hiatus from the sport.[1][2][3]
The 40-year-old American, who last won the 2010 Shell Houston Open, overcame a five-shot deficit in the final round to fire a flawless 9-under 63, finishing at 23-under par for a three-stroke victory over Jon Rahm (20-under). Bryson DeChambeau, tied with Rahm after three rounds at 19-under, faltered with four bogeys in his first six holes, ending tied for third with Tyrrell Hatton and Peter Uihlein at 17-under.[2][3][4]
A Journey of Resilience
Kim’s path back to the winner’s circle is one of the most inspirational tales in professional golf. After rising as a prodigy with three PGA Tour wins, a Ryder Cup appearance, and a record 11 birdies in a single Masters round, Kim vanished from the sport in 2014 amid battles with alcohol and drug addiction, as well as career-ending injuries.[1][4][5]
He spent over a decade in obscurity, playing occasional pro-ams and focusing on personal recovery. Sober for three years, Kim joined LIV Golf as a wildcard in 2024, facing early struggles as he shook off 12½ years of rust. His mantra, “1% better every day,” fueled dramatic improvement, culminating in this week’s triumph at The Grange Golf Club.[1][3][4]
“Nobody else has to believe in me but me. And for anybody that’s struggling, you can get through anything,” Kim said post-round, his voice thick with emotion.[4]
Dramatic Final Round Drama
Starting five shots behind overnight leaders Rahm and DeChambeau, Kim stayed composed while his star-studded final group unraveled. He birdied the par-4 fourth to match Rahm, then added three more by the turn, trimming the lead to one stroke.[2]
The turning point came on the par-5 12th, where Kim drained a clutch putt to tie Rahm at 19-under, unleashing a fist pump loaded with “years of pent-up emotion, frustration, and fire.” Birdies on 13, 14, 15, and 17 followed, pulling him clear. He sealed it with another on 17, strolling up 18 with the title secure.[1][3]
“I knew this was going to happen but for it actually to happen is pretty insane,” Kim reflected. “I just want to thank all the people that have supported me … who, when I was not playing well and I was struggling on the verge of never coming back to LIV, always supported me.”[4]
Team Triumph for Ripper GC
The Adelaide crowd had double reason to celebrate as hometown Ripper GC, captained by Cameron Smith, claimed the team title for the second straight week and second time in three years at the venue. They finished two shots ahead of Rahm’s Legion XIII with a combined score of 3-under 52 in the final round.[1][3][5]
Marc Leishman led with a 7-under 65, supported by Lucas Herbert and debutant Elvis Smylie’s matching 3-under 69s, and Smith’s 2-under 70. Kim’s heroics propelled 4Aces GC to third place.[1][5]
Praise from Peers
Fellow competitors hailed Kim’s achievement as historic for LIV Golf and the sport. Ripper captain Cam Smith, who played with Kim in his 2024 LIV debut, said: “It’s so good. … What he’s been able to do over the past couple of seasons and dig deep and grind out and then do what he did today is pretty special. Congrats to him. I’m so happy for him.”[1]
Kim, who qualified for the 2026 LIV season just last month, pocketed $4 million, underscoring his resurgence on a tour known for its high-stakes competition.[4][5]
Legacy of Perseverance
This victory caps a story of redemption that transcends golf. From PGA Tour star to obscurity, then back to beating the world’s elite, Kim’s win proves resilience can conquer any odds. As he fist-pumped amid roaring Australian fans, it was clear: Anthony Kim is back, and better than ever.[1][2][3]
The LIV Golf Adelaide event highlighted not just individual brilliance but the circuit’s growing appeal, with packed galleries cheering local heroes and global underdogs alike. For Kim, it’s validation after years of doubt – a reminder that quitting is never the answer, as echoed in his post-win press conference: “DON’T F*ING QUIT.”[6]
Full leaderboards and highlights are available on LIV Golf’s official channels, capturing every birdie of this unforgettable Sunday.[1][7]