Tom Kim, a pivotal player on the International team at the Presidents Cup, faces an important decision this weekend. While there is a strong possibility of his team winning the event for only the second time in history, Kim will likely miss the conclusion. He’s set to participate in the Asian Games at Kasugi Country Club in Japan starting Wednesday.
A Presidents Cup victory would be significant for Kim. However, performing well at the Asian Games would offer an even greater reward. If he wins a gold medal in the individual or team events there, he would be exempt from South Korea’s required military service.
Tom Kim of South Korea, seen here making a shot from the fifth tee during Saturday’s Foursome matches at the Presidents Cup 2026, has earned three out of four possible points at Medinah. His schedule is tight; he’s scheduled to fly to Japan late Sunday afternoon, with the competition starting Wednesday.
South Korean law mandates that most able-bodied men complete 18 to 21 months of military service. Nonetheless, exemptions are available for athletes and classical artists excelling internationally. Athletes can gain this exemption by securing any medal at the Olympics or a gold medal at the Asian Games.
Kim narrowly missed earning a bronze medal at the 2024 Olympics in Paris, finishing four shots from third place after a final-round 68. On the international stage, Scottie Scheffler took home the gold in Paris. Meanwhile, Sungjae Im and Si Woo Kim, fellow competitors on the International team, won gold for South Korea in the team event at the 2023 Asian Games.
This year, Kim is teaming up with Do-yeob Moon and S.H. Kim for the South Korean squad at the Asian Games. Kim, who has already secured four wins on the PGA Tour, is among four players on the International team to compete in all initial sessions of the Presidents Cup 2026.