Despite Last Place Finish, Anthony Kim Stays Positive: 'Encouraged' by Return to Pro Golf

Anthony Kim expressed feeling "encouraged" after participating in his first professional golf event in 12 years at the LIV Golf tournament in Saudi Arabia. Despite finishing last in the competition, the 38-year-old American remained positive about his performance. His lack of recent experience was evident as he finished 16-over par and placed at the bottom of the 53-player field after completing all 54 holes in Jeddah.

Kim, a former world No. 6 golfer, finished 11 shots behind the nearest competitor and 33 shots behind champion Joaquin Niemann. Despite improving with a final round 4-over 74, he still has room for growth.

Kim, who recently returned to the sport as a season-long wild card player on the Saudi-backed circuit, is optimistic about his performance. He believes that with some adjustments, he could have finished the final round under par.

Kim shared with reporters on Sunday that despite playing poorly in the tournament, she felt more encouraged.

She expressed her excitement for the future, mentioning that her game is improving and she is starting to regain her form. Kim is optimistic about the upcoming year.

Kim struck his first shot at a pro event since 2012 on Friday.

Kim struck his first shot at a pro event since 2012 on Friday.

Chris Trotman/LIV Golf/AP

Although Kim showed glimpses of his past success with four birdies at Royal Greens Golf and Country Club, he also experienced some challenges, such as a wild shank five holes into his first round.

Kim still managed to win $50,000 in prize money at the tournament, and he is now looking forward to the next event in Hong Kong on Friday.

"I feel like I'm playing really well. I'm happy with how things are going," Kim mentioned.

"It's disappointing that the scores don't show it, but I believe there's room for improvement. I'll keep working hard and stay focused on my goals."

Chilean Niemann clinched the $4 million individual winner's prize with a remarkable performance, finishing 17-under to beat South African runners-up Louis Oosthuizen and Charl Schwartzel.

Niemann poses with the winner's trophy.

Niemann poses with the winner's trophy.

Charles Laberge, a 25-year-old golfer, has recently won two out of the tour's first three events this year. He achieved victory at the season-opener in Mexico. Prior to joining LIV Golf in July 2022, Laberge was a two-time champion on the PGA Tour.

Laberge, currently ranked world No. 72, was given a special invitation to compete in The Masters last month. This invitation was extended to him because he had participated in the DP World Tour (formerly known as the European Tour) in an effort to earn enough ranking points for automatic qualification.

Joaquin Niemann from Chile is seen playing his second shot on the 10th hole during Round One of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic at Emirates Golf Club in Dubai, United Arab Emirates on January 18, 2024. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images)

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - JANUARY 18: Joaquin Niemann of Chile plays his second shot on the 10th hole during Round One of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic at Emirates Golf Club on January 18, 2024 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images)

Warren Little/Getty Images

Related article

Playing at The Masters is no easy feat, just ask Joaquin Niemann from LIV Golf. As the date for tee off at Augusta National in April approaches, Niemann confesses that he enters each tournament with the belief that he is the top contender.

"I believe that's how it should be. I want to feel confident and believe in myself all the time," he shared with reporters on Sunday.

"I feel like this is probably my shining moment, the best I've ever performed, I would say. I just hope to continue moving in the same positive direction."

Editor's P/S:

The article highlights Anthony Kim's return to professional golf after a 12-year hiatus. While his performance at the LIV Golf tournament in Saudi Arabia was not as impressive as in his previous years, Kim remains optimistic about his future prospects. Despite finishing last in the competition, he believes that with some adjustments, he can improve his game and regain his former form. His positive attitude and determination to succeed are commendable, and it will be interesting to see how he performs in future events.

The article also provides an update on Joaquin Niemann's recent success on the LIV Golf tour. Niemann, who clinched the $4 million individual winner's prize at the Saudi Arabia event, is a rising star in the sport. His confidence and belief in his abilities have contributed to his impressive performances, and he will undoubtedly be one to watch in the upcoming Masters tournament.