Anthony Kim Triumphs with Anti-LIV Style, Morikawa Shines at Pebble
This past weekend, Anthony Kim marked a significant comeback in the world of professional golf by clinching the title at LIV Golf Adelaide. His victory is considered a pivotal moment for LIV Golf, which launched in 2022, especially amid the circuit’s unconventional structure of guaranteed player contracts and no-cut events.
Anthony Kim’s Inspiring Return
Kim’s journey back to the top was anything but straightforward. He faced a decade marked by personal hardships, numerous injuries, and a struggle with identity. Despite signing with LIV Golf in 2024, he initially struggled, finishing 56th out of 59 in the season-long standings. The following year saw little improvement, leading him to a promotional tournament for a chance to continue his career.
In this do-or-die promotional event, Kim secured a top-three finish, earning full-season status for 2026. His determination shone through at LIV Golf Adelaide, where he overcame a five-shot deficit, shooting an impressive 63 in the final round. This performance not only earned him the title but also highlighted his resilience against established players like Bryson DeChambeau and Jon Rahm.
Significance of the Win
- Kim’s victory is hailed as the best day for LIV Golf since its inception.
- He completed his first professional win in over 5,700 days.
- Kim’s story embodies themes of adversity and self-belief.
Collin Morikawa Shines at Pebble Beach
While Kim triumphed in Australia, Collin Morikawa demonstrated his skill at the Pebble Beach Pro-Am. Faced with challenging weather conditions, Morikawa navigated pressure to secure a thrilling victory. He finished at 22-under par, just ahead of competitors Min Woo Lee and Sepp Straka.
Highlights of Morikawa’s Performance
- Morikawa faced severe weather, including winds over 30 mph.
- He overcame a tough 17th hole, maintaining composure under pressure.
- This victory marked his first win since October 2023.
Other Notable Events
The weekend also saw Charley Hull earning her first Ladies’ European Tour event victory in 2026. Her final round at the PIF Saudi Ladies International was remarkable, featuring a strong finish that solidified her success. With this win, she claimed a substantial prize of $750,000 and noted her plans to pay off her house, expressing gratitude for the financial support through her hard-fought achievements.
Pebble Beach Highlights
- Scottie Scheffler notched a final round of 63 but fell short of the victory.
- Tommy Fleetwood made a strong return with a T-4 finish in his season debut.
- Rory McIlroy, also in the field, improved throughout the tournament with a 64 on the final day.
This weekend’s tournaments have underscored not only remarkable individual performances but also the unpredictable nature of professional golf, showcasing comebacks and resilience on the field.
