Tom Kim, a four-time PGA Tour winner, usually enjoys competing for large prizes and job stability in the golf world. However, participating in the recent Asian Games in Japan brought him into an entirely different pressure-cooker situation. For this 24-year-old golfer, the stakes included the possibility of leaving America and golf to fulfill a lengthy military service in South Korea.
Under South Korean law, military service is mandatory for most able-bodied men, lasting 18 to 21 months. However, exemptions are available for athletes who excel in international competitions, such as winning a medal in the Olympics or a gold in the Asian Games. Born in Seoul, Kim faced a life-altering decision but chose to seize the opportunity to earn his military exemption now rather than waiting for a possible medal at the 2028 Olympics.
“Just be you. Nothing more, nothing less,” Tiger Woods texted Kim before his final round, according to Yonhap News Agency.
Entering the Asian Games, Kim came in strong, fresh from leading the points for his International side in the Presidents Cup. His impressive form translated into a one-shot lead before the final round. The presence of a military exemption hanging over him made the stakes incredibly high, but Kim thrived under this pressure. With four birdies in the first eight holes and an eagle on the 13th, he finished with a final-round 64, winning by three shots and securing the coveted gold medal.
2026 has indeed been significant for Kim. Securing his military exemption ranks high, but he also celebrated a victory at the Scottish Open, marking his first win on the Tour in nearly three years. This achievement helped him climb over 70 spots in the world rankings, starting the year outside the Top 100.
The 100th Start Triumph for Austin Smotherman
Austin Smotherman, another player making waves, marked a career milestone at the Bank of Utah Championship. Celebrating his 100th PGA Tour start, the 32-year-old clinched his first victory, transforming a promising week into a memorable career moment.
Having started his professional journey in 2016, Smotherman has participated in over 30 starts on the PGA Tour Latin America and 102 on the Korn Ferry Tour before hitting the big leagues. His perseverance finally paid off with a win at the Black Desert Resort in Utah.
“One hundred starts out here is an incredible number,” Smotherman reflected. He expressed gratitude for the opportunities and support he’s received throughout his ten-year career. This achievement has secured his place in the first two signature events of the 2027 PGA Tour season and a prize of $1.08 million.
Brooks Koepka’s Return to Form
Brooks Koepka, known for his prowess with iron play, struggled to find his rhythm after returning to the PGA Tour from LIV Golf. Despite strong performances at The Players and the Masters, inconsistency led to a disappointing season, prompting him to take a month-long break from competitive play.
Upon his return, he joined the DP World Tour, seeking to refine his game in European tournaments. Despite a lackluster start with a T-55 at the Irish Open and a missed cut at the BMW PGA Championship, the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship offered a glimmer of hope.
Koepka’s T-6 finish at the prestigious tournament, played across Kingsbarns, Carnoustie, and the Old Course at St. Andrews, suggests a potential resurgence for the golfer in future competitions. His performance in challenging conditions may serve as a foundation for his return to form in 2027.