Anthony Kim is making his sixth LIV start this week in Houston. Despite struggling to find his form after a 12-plus-year layoff, Kim is back in the game and grateful for the opportunity to compete at a professional level once again. In his five LIV starts this season, Kim has not finished better than 50th in 54-player events and is a combined 52 over par. He also ranks outside the top 50 in key statistical categories like fairways hit, greens in regulation, and scrambling.
Kim’s return to the Golf Club of Houston, the site of his third PGA Tour win in 2010, brings back positive memories for him. This interview has been edited for length and clarity, as Kim shares his thoughts on his road back to golf, his struggles on the course, and the daily challenges he faces. Despite facing difficulties in refocusing on his shots and competing at the highest level, Kim credits LIV Golf for treating players well and providing a first-class experience that reignites his passion for the game.
The recent death of Grayson Murray, who battled addiction, hits close to home for Kim. Reflecting on the preciousness of life, Kim emphasizes the importance of enjoying and appreciating each day. He attributes his positivity to recovery and acknowledges that the day-by-day struggle is real. Being back on the pro tour gives him a routine and a reason to get up every morning. Kim credits his support system, including his wife and daughter, for inspiring him to stay on the right path.
Kim refrains from sharing specific incidents from his past, as they will be featured in a future documentary. He expresses the pivotal moment when he realized he needed to make a change for the sake of his daughter and his own well-being. In response to skeptics who doubt his ability to succeed after a long hiatus, Kim remains focused on his journey and disregards negative comments. He looks forward to potential future opportunities with LIV and reflects on his past success at the Golf Club of Houston.
As Kim prepares to compete alongside Phil Mickelson in the upcoming tournament, he reminisces about his peak days on Tour. He acknowledges that many players may only know him from his previous career and strives to move forward from his struggles. Despite facing challenges, Kim remains determined to make the most of his comeback to professional golf. He reflects on the changes in his game and equipment over the years and aims to channel positive memories for success on the course. As he continues on his journey, Kim looks forward to embracing new opportunities and focusing on his recovery and sobriety.
