Tom Kim is a promising PGA player known for his rapid ascent in professional golf. With a multicultural background and an early introduction to the sport, he turned professional in 2018. Since then, he has secured seven international victories and made headlines as the youngest three-time winner on the PGA TOUR. His notable achievements include representing the International Team at the 2022 Presidents Cup. Exploring his path reveals more about his impressive career and potential for further success.
Early Life
Tom Kim, inspired by Thomas the Tank Engine, experienced a multicultural upbringing as he lived in numerous countries including China, Thailand, Australia, and the Philippines.
His childhood was enriched by being fluent in Tagalog, English, and Korean, reflecting his diverse heritage.
Tom’s passion for golf was greatly influenced by his father, Chang-Ik Lee, a former professional golfer and current teaching professional, who introduced him to the sport at an early age.
This foundation led to a focused pursuit of golf during his school years, culminating in his professional debut in 2018.
Tom Kim’s expedition in golf is marked by a rapid ascent, with seven international victories highlighting his exceptional talent from a young age.
Family Life
Tom Kim, also known as Joohyung Kim, comes from a family with a strong influence in the world of golf. His father, Chang-Ik Lee, is a golf teaching professional who played competitively before dedicating himself to teaching the sport, which has greatly shaped Tom’s career path.
Growing up in a multicultural environment, Tom has lived in countries like China, Thailand, Australia, and the Philippines, enhancing his appreciation for diverse cultures and languages. He is fluent in Tagalog, English, and Korean, reflecting his rich upbringing.
Despite the spotlight on his rising fame, Tom remains closely connected to his family, often expressing gratitude for their steadfast support during interviews and public appearances. His childhood nickname, “Tom,” was inspired by the beloved character Thomas the Tank Engine, adding a personal touch to his identity.
Career
Tom Kim turned professional in 2018 and quickly made a notable impact in the golf world. He secured his initial professional victory in 2019 on the Asian Development Tour in Malaysia, winning by six strokes.
Kim made headlines in 2022 at the Wyndham Championship, becoming the earliest PGA TOUR winner born after 2000. He boasts a total of seven international victories and is recognized as the youngest three-time winner on the PGA TOUR since Tiger Woods in 1997.
Furthermore, Kim represented the International Team at the 2022 Presidents Cup, displaying his growing prominence in professional golf.
Net Worth
Tom Kim’s net worth is estimated at $2 million, primarily from his PGA TOUR earnings and endorsements.
His notable prize money includes $1.4 million from his initial PGA TOUR victory at the 2022 Wyndham Championship, and he has earned supplementary amounts through consistent performances in tournaments, including $500,000 at the Masters and several other top finishes.
As a rising golf star, Tom Kim’s financial prospects are expected to grow with continued success and sponsorships.