Golf’s Prodigy Tom Kim Makes History as the Youngest with Three PGA Tour Wins
After a thrilling title defense at the Shriners Children’s Open in Las Vegas, 21-year-old golf sensation Tom Kim emerged victorious in a closely contested final round duel with Adam Hadwin. Kim secured the win with a final round 66, claiming the $1.512 million winner’s prize. This achievement makes Kim the first golfer to defend the Shriners Children’s Open since Jim Furyk in 1999 and the youngest to win three PGA Tour titles since Tiger Woods.
Not one for the Vegas strip, Kim celebrated his victory by indulging in white chocolate Ferrero Rocher, ordered room service, and set an early alarm for a 6:30 a.m. flight home. Despite his youthful age, Kim’s preference for a quiet setting near the course reflects his low-key personality.
Kim’s meteoric rise in the golfing world continues, with this victory elevating him to a career-high world No. 11 ranking. Since turning pro in 2018, Kim has rapidly climbed the ranks, adding stellar major performances to his resume, including a tied-8th finish at the US Open and a joint-runner-up position at the Open Championship.
The significance of winning the Shriners Children’s Open is not lost on Kim, as the event is sponsored by Shriners Children’s hospitals, which provide free treatment to children regardless of their families’ ability to pay. Expressing his appreciation, Kim said, “Certainly because I’m 21, I’m not the oldest guy out here, and the kids here are even younger than me. I feel like I’m kind of close in age with them, and if there’s anything I can do just to inspire one kid out there, it would mean the world.”
Despite a strong performance, world No. 46 Adam Hadwin faced a setback at the par-five 16th hole, allowing Kim to secure the victory with steady play through the back-nine.
In a parallel historic moment, Lexi Thompson, aiming to become the first woman to make the cut at a PGA Tour event in 78 years, narrowly missed the weekend rounds, falling three strokes short. Thompson, the seventh woman ever to compete in a PGA Tour tournament, showcased her skills and expressed her joy in inspiring young fans.
Kim’s consistent performance and dedication to inspiring others, especially the young audience, mark a memorable and meaningful win at the Shriners Children’s Open.
