Report: Anthony Kim Talking Return to Golf with PGA Tour, LIV After 11-Year Absence
January 26, 2024
Anthony Kim, who had a promising start to his golf career before it was derailed by injuries over a decade ago, is reportedly considering picking up the clubs once again.
According to ESPN's Mark Schlabach, Kim has been in discussions with the PGA Tour and LIV Golf about returning to professional golf.
The last time Kim played on the PGA Tour was in May 2012 when he withdrew after the first round of the Wells Fargo Championship. He underwent surgery the following month to repair an injury to the Achilles tendon in his left leg, and he hasn't participated in a professional tournament since.
Schlabach noted that sources said Kim has been ramping up his training in recent weeks and is eyeing a possible return to pro tournaments at some point this spring. However, he would face a slight hurdle if he chose to come back.
The 38-year-old collected at least part of a disability insurance policy that was reportedly worth $10-20 million. If he returns to professional competition, he would have to pay back a large portion or possibly all of the settlement he collected.
After turning pro in 2006, Kim had a quick rise to stardom. During the 2008 season, he earned his first PGA Tour victory at the Wachovia Championship at Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte. He won again less than two months later at the AT&T National at Congressional Country Club in Bethesda, Maryland. At the height of his career, he was ranked as high as sixth in the world.
Schlabach noted that Kim would have the option of playing in non-signature events as a past champion or through exemptions on the PGA Tour. LIV Golf commissioner Greg Norman also reportedly reached out to him to begin negotiations on a potential one-year deal.
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