Tom Kim is turning heads worldwide. With flair, fire, and fearless play, the 22-year-old phenom is chasing more than wins—he’s chasing icon status on the global golf stage.
Introduction – The Rising Star With Old-School Swagger
At just 22, Tom Kim already plays with the poise of a seasoned pro. His early career has been electric: three PGA Tour wins before turning 21, a Presidents Cup debut that lit up Quail Hollow, and charisma that’s made him a fan favorite from Seoul to Scottsdale.
But in 2025, with the spotlight brighter than ever, Kim is at a crossroads. Can he evolve from “future star” to true global icon?
2025 Snapshot – Consistent, Close, and Still Climbing
12 consecutive cuts made 3 Top-25 finishes in last 5 starts
Ranked Top 20 in SG: Approach and Top 30 in Scoring Average
The Game – Built for Modern Majors
According to DataGolf, Kim’s strengths lie in elite approach play and a steadily improving putting game. His swing is compact and repeatable, ideal for windy setups and firm greens.
“Tom’s game is built on precision and feel — he’s like Collin Morikawa with more fire,” said Golf Channel analyst Brandel Chamblee in March.
While he’s still developing off the tee, Kim’s calm under pressure and surgical wedge game make him dangerous, especially on tough layouts.
Legacy Check – Ahead of Schedule?
Kim already boasts:
- 3 PGA Tour wins (2022 Wyndham, 2022 & 2023 Shriners)
Presidents Cup heroics (2022)
Rapid rise into the OWGR Top 15 before age 21
“He’s got the energy of Spieth, the work ethic of Im, and the maturity of Adam Scott,” said Rory McIlroy after their 2024 pairing at the Genesis.
The real test? Majors. Kim has yet to crack a Top 10 in a major, but 2025 offers four more chances — including a PGA at Valhalla, where ball-strikers thrive.
The X-Factor – Charisma, Culture & Crowd Love
Kim isn’t just a stats guy. He brings personality to a sport that needs it.
Known for high-fiving fans and volunteering post-round interviews
Viral quotes, including the now-iconic “I love pressure!” after his 2022 win
Huge following in Asia and rising brand appeal in the U.S.
He’s been featured in TGL Golf’s launch roster, has endorsements from Nike, Titleist, and CJ Logistics, and is viewed as the face of the next-gen Asian golf movement.
What’s Next – PGA Championship, U.S. Open, Olympic Dream
Tom Kim’s next big test is the PGA Championship at Valhalla, followed by the U.S. Open at Oakmont — two venues demanding control, grit, and patience.
Also on the radar: the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, where Kim could represent South Korea and boost his global star power.
If he breaks through this summer? A GOAT arc is officially underway.
GOAT Meter: Tom Kim’s Trajectory (April 2025)
Progress to GOAT status:
- 3 PGA Tour wins before age 21
- Huge fan appeal across Asia & US
- Top 30 in Strokes Gained Total
No Top 10 finishes in majors yet
PGA Championship next test
Verdict: Rising fast — one major away from true GOAT contention.
Final Word – A Star Waiting to Ignite
He’s made the cut in every start this season. He’s ranked among the best approach players on Tour. He’s only 22.
Now it’s time to answer the final question:
Can Tom Kim win on the biggest stages, with the whole world watching?
The talent is there. The spotlight is his. The GOAT watch is on.
