Anthony Kim lifts the lid on LIV Golf return and admits original comeback idea was blocked.
Anthony Kim has revealed his attempt to return to the amateur golf scene before joining LIV Golf after a lengthy 12-year hiatus.
The former PGA Tour whiz, who mysteriously disappeared from the sport in 2012 due to injuries, has made a surprising comeback at 38 by signing with the controversial LIV series as a “wildcard”. Last year, when whispers of his return began circulating, both LIV and the PGA Tour reached out to discuss potential opportunities.
However, prior to these talks, the Californian golfer, who boasts three PGA Tour wins and was part of the triumphant 2008 Ryder Cup squad, had contemplated a different path back to the greens. He was keen on regaining his amateur status to try for a spot at The Masters.
Kim reached out to the United States Golf Association (USGA) with a request but was ultimately denied. In an interview with Bunkered, he recounted, “I actually attempted to regain my amateur status, or at least discussed the possibility, just before the LIV and PGA [Tour] reached out.” Reflecting on a moment shared with his wife during a round of golf, he mentioned, “While my wife was playing, I was in the cart. After hitting a good shot, she remarked, ‘How amazing would it be if you could compete in The Masters again?’ The only avenue I considered for that was through the US Amateur.”
He further elaborated, “I contacted my former agent, but the USGA declined my request. I believed it would be a wonderful experience for my daughter to witness. I certainly plan to attempt qualifying for some major tournaments in the near future, and I am eager for that opportunity. I am grateful for the chance to participate in LIV, compete alongside some of the finest players globally, and create lasting memories with my family.”
After a challenging re-entry into the demanding realm of professional golf, Kim currently finds himself at the lower end of the LIV leaderboard. With his contract nearing its conclusion and only two tournaments remaining, he has yet to make a notable impression.
Despite joining the LIV series at its third event in Jeddah, Kim’s top performance has been a tie for 45th place, leaving him without a single point to his name this season.
With the clock running down, Kim is staring down the barrel of a Drop Zone finish, putting his future in the league at risk. He’ll need to pull out all the stops in the last two events if he wants to avoid being shut out of LIV in 2025.
The countdown is on as the second-to-last event of the season tees off at The Greenbrier this Friday, setting the stage for the grand finale next month at Bolingbrook Golf Club in Illinois.
