29 February 2024 , 18:10
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Things did not go to plan for Anthony Kim upon his return to action in Saudi Arabia this week, with the former PGA Tour star making his first competitive start in 12 years.
Kim has made a shock return to professional golf, opting to sign with LIV Golf as a wildcard for the remainder of 2024. The ex-Ryder Cupper last teed it up at the Wells Fargo Championship in 2012, but following yet another withdrawal due to injury, he headed into golfing exile.
His hiatus is now over, and the 38-year-old returned to the golf course for the first time since joining LIV, competing in the pre-tournament Pro-Am at Royal Greens Golf and Country Club.
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His long-awaited opening tee shot was not one of his best though, with Kim heard jokingly asking for a mulligan after a wayward strike. Of course an errant tee shot in a pre-event pro-am will worry Kim one bit, with business officially beginning in Friday's opening round.
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The 38-year-old has not given much away ahead of his official comeback, admitting he will speak further about his decision to join LIV and his time away 'when the time is right'. Clearly looking forward to his breakaway league debut though, Kim said in a statement: "After stepping away from the game years ago due to injury, I’m happy to officially announce my return to the world of professional golf.
“It’s been a long time coming, and I’m very grateful for all the highs, lows and lessons learned from the first part of my career. I want to compete with the best players in the world, and I’m on a mission to prove to myself that I can win again. The next step on that journey starts now, and I’m excited to give everything I’ve got this season on the LIV Golf League.”
The three-time PGA Tour winner also received quite the welcome from LIV CEO Greg Norman, who described Kim as the 'perfect fit' for the Saudi-funded league. "LIV Golf was launched to create new opportunities for players and fans that drive this sport forward in exciting ways," Norman said.
"And when I think of Anthony Kim, I can’t imagine a more perfect fit for what we’re trying to do. His talent is undeniable, and we are thrilled to welcome him back to professional golf with our league. It’s clear that he has the fire to win again and show why he was one of the most compelling players in the world, and we will support him on that mission as he works to earn his way back to the top of the game.”
Kim was joined by Norman as well as Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia chief Yasir Al-Rumyaan out on the course on Wednesday, with the 38-year-old thanking both for the opportunity. "Family over everything," Kim tweeted. "Thank you Your Excellency [Al-Rumyaan], Greg, & the LIV team for providing my family this opportunity & experiences."