Doug Ghim stunned the PGA Tour on Thursday with a career-best, bogey-free 62 during the opening round of the John Deere Classic, taking an unexpected lead at TPC Deere Run. The 29-year-old Illinois native showcased the talent and determination that have quietly defined his seven-year professional journey, positioning himself in a spot he has never occupied before in his career.
Roots From Chicago Suburbs to National Recognition
Ghim’s rise began in the Chicago suburbs of Des Plaines and Arlington Heights, where he first developed a passion for golf as a youth. After graduating from Buffalo Grove High School, he advanced to the University of Texas, where his game flourished. Ghim’s amateur career was decorated with notable achievements, including winning the Ben Hogan Award as the top college golfer and earning low amateur honors at the Masters Tournament, a rare honor that signaled his potential to the golf world.
Despite falling just short in the 2017 U.S. Amateur, Ghim’s performance propelled him into the spotlight, and he went on to represent the United States in both the Palmer Cup and Walker Cup matches. His memorable week at Augusta National, where he made multiple eagles and earned crystal goblets as rewards, remains a highlight in his amateur career and a testament to his skill under pressure.
The Challenge of Professional Golf and Steady Progress
Transitioning to the professional level has presented its difficulties. While Ghim’s amateur success set high expectations, his professional journey has been marked by incremental improvements rather than immediate triumphs. Over 162 starts on the PGA Tour, he has accumulated a reputation as a persistent competitor, highlighted most recently by a runner-up finish at the 2024 Shriners Children’s Open, signaling his potential to break through for his first victory.
Entering this week’s John Deere Classic ranked 124th in the FedEx Cup standings, Ghim had experienced modest results this season, with his best being a tie for 11th at the Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches. Despite the challenges and setbacks, his opening-round 62 stands as a transformative moment in his season and career.
Career-Best Round Ignites Hope at John Deere Classic
Ghim’s bogey-free 62 reflects years of dedication finally converging into a career-highlight round. Now in his sixth appearance at the John Deere Classic, the tournament has served as the stage for many emerging talents, and Ghim’s strong start aligns with the event’s history of breakthrough performances. Playing close to home, with the support of Illinois fans, adds another emotional layer to his achievement and builds anticipation for the remainder of the week.
The John Deere Classic is well known for delivering first-time winners, and Ghim fits this profile perfectly, embodying the underdog with a compelling narrative and genuine potential.
Persistence Defines Ghim’s Path Forward
Unlike some rising stars who burst onto the scene with multiple early victories, Ghim represents relentless perseverance. His steady climb reflects a player who shows up week after week, focused on improving and carving out his place on tour. As a Korean American growing up in Chicago’s suburbs, his story adds meaningful representation to professional golf, inspiring those who rarely see themselves reflected at sport’s highest levels.
Ghim’s journey from Buffalo Grove High School to competing among the elite at the PGA Tour highlights the power of determination and resilience, qualities that resonate deeply within the golf community and beyond.
Looking Ahead: Ghim’s Chance to Cement His Legacy
With three rounds remaining at TPC Deere Run, Doug Ghim faces the pressure and excitement of possibly securing his first PGA Tour victory. This early lead positions him to alter the narrative of his career at a pivotal moment. His opening round displays confidence and skill, indicating a strong potential to contend through the weekend and perhaps rewrite his professional legacy.
The slow-building nature of Ghim’s story is what makes it compelling—his breakthrough may just be around the corner following Thursday’s standout performance.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Has Doug Ghim ever won?
A. He started the tournament with a 9-under 62, aiming to win his first PGA TOUR title at the John Deere Classic. Ghim held a one-stroke lead over Max Homa and Austin Eckroat at TPC Deere Run. In 12 of the past 15 years, the winner’s score there has been 20-under par or lower.
Q. How much money did Doug Ghim make in his career?
A. Doug Ghim has earned $7,255,745 during his professional career. StatMuse provides yearly earnings data starting from the 1980 season.