GOLF.AI • Feb 25, 2026

Anthony Kim's Redemption Is Complete

In one of the most improbable comeback stories in modern sports, Anthony Kim has completed a 16-year journey back to the winner's circle. His recent victory at LIV Adelaide, where he triumphed over superstars like Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau, is far more than just a golf tournament win; it's the culmination of a dramatic return from the brink of obscurity.

Once a rising superstar in the late 2000s, Kim vanished from the sport for over a decade. His absence was shrouded in mystery, but it is now known that he faced a tumultuous period defined by battles with drug and alcohol abuse, multiple severe injuries, and significant mental health struggles. His recent public celebration of "3 years sober" adds a deeply personal and powerful layer to his professional triumph, highlighting the immense personal hurdles he has overcome.

The path back to the top was anything but easy. Kim's return to professional golf was marked by two lackluster seasons on the LIV circuit, where he failed to record a single top-25 finish and was ultimately relegated. In a humbling turn for a former top-10 player, he had to earn his spot back through a promotions event. Yet, his resolve never wavered. As he reflected during his struggles, "My self belief is second to none. Obviously taking 12 and a half years off the game is a long time and you have to build that confidence back."

That self-belief paid off in Adelaide. The victory, his first since 2010, serves as the ultimate redemption. The poignant image of him celebrating on the 18th green with his daughter encapsulates the meaning of his journey, symbolizing a new life, a renewed purpose, and the completion of a story that transcends golf.