Kris Kim, a 16-year-old golfer from Surrey, England, is set to make his PGA Tour debut at the 2024 CJ Cup Byron Nelson in Texas. His mother, Ji-Hyun Suh, previously played on the LPGA tour in 1998 and 1999, coinciding with the rise of Se Ri Pak. Kim brings an impressive resume to the tournament, with victories in the R&A Boys’ Amateur Championship, European Boys Individual Championship, and the McGregor Trophy in 2023. Additionally, he went undefeated at the Junior Ryder Cup against other young talents.
Kim is excited to play in front of large crowds again, citing the adrenaline rush of competitive golf. His sponsor exemption for the tournament comes from CJ Group, making him the first amateur they have sponsored. Managed by Trinifold Sports, Kim has also signed NIL deals with Under Armour and TaylorMade, distinguishing himself as a young talent to watch in the golf world. His mother, Suh, also has a storied history in golf, starting at a young age in Seoul before playing professionally on various tours.
Suh’s career includes stints on the LPGA and Japan LPGA tours, where she achieved respectable finishes before ultimately stepping away from professional golf. She has since settled in Surrey and now works as a golf instructor. Kim’s dedication to the game has impressed those around him, with his coach praising his work ethic and passion for the sport. As Kim takes the next step in his career, he looks to his mother for guidance on handling the challenges that come with playing at the highest level of golf.
Kim’s goals for the tournament include making the cut and gaining valuable experience on the PGA Tour. He acknowledges the competitive field of 144 players and remains focused on his own performance and growth as a young golfer. The support from his family, particularly his mother, will be crucial in navigating the pressures of professional golf. Kim recognizes that every week on tour presents new lessons and challenges, and he is eager to learn and improve his game.
As Kim prepares for his debut on the PGA Tour, he reflects on the journey that brought him to this moment. With a strong support system and a deep love for the game, he is poised to make an impact in the world of professional golf. The lessons he learns from competing against the top players in the world will shape his future and help him achieve his dreams in the sport. Kris Kim’s debut at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson marks the beginning of what promises to be a promising career in golf.
