Revitalized by Sobriety: Chris Kirk's Remarkable Journey to Victory on the PGA Tour
Chris Kirk's remarkable journey from doubt to triumph continues as he claims his second victory within a year on the PGA Tour in Hawaii Overcoming personal challenges, his unwavering determination and newfound sobriety have revitalized his career
Chris Kirk once doubted his return to the PGA Tour, let alone winning a tournament. However, in Hawaii in 2024, he secured his second victory in less than a year. A remarkable birdie at the penultimate hole propelled the American to win The Sentry in Maui with a final round of eight-under 65, narrowly beating fellow American Sahith Theegala by one stroke with a total of 29-under overall.
Ideal weather conditions for the final round at the Plantation Course marked the end of a week of extraordinarily low scores, with all 59 players shooting under-par for the second time in four days. South Korean Sungjae Im set a new PGA Tour record with 34 birdies in the 72-hole event, sinking 10 on Sunday to tie for fifth place. Despite this impressive feat, it was the 30th and final birdie of Chris Kirk's personal best in a PGA Tour event that ultimately secured him his sixth PGA Tour title and the $3.6 million (£2.83 million) winners purse. Kirk's exceptional birdie was the result of a 209-yard approach that landed within three feet of the hole.
Chris Kirk celebrates his victory at the Honda Classic golf tournament by kissing the trophy, following a thrilling playoff against Eric Cole on Sunday, Feb. 26, 2023, in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
Lynne Sladky/AP
Chris Kirk battled alcoholism and depression - now he has secured his first PGA Tour victory in seven years
After winning the Honda Classic nine months ago, the 38-year-old golfer has achieved another victory in a much shorter span of time. His previous win in Florida was his first on the PGA Tour in nearly eight years, which happened after he committed to sobriety four years earlier.
In May 2019, just before his 34th birthday, Kirk revealed that he would be taking an indefinite break from golf to address his issues with alcohol abuse and depression. At the time, he was ranked 188th in the world. Now, Kirk reflected on his journey and is on track to reach world No. 25, his highest ranking since 2015.
"Its 100% the reason why Im able to do what I do," Kirk told reporters.
"Ive said that a lot, but my PGA Tour career would have been over a while ago had I not gotten sober."
Kirk celebrates with the trophy.
Kirk was awarded the 2023 PGA Tours Courage Award for his openness about his challenges following his six-month break. The award is given to someone who has shown exceptional courage and determination in overcoming personal tragedy, injury, or illness to make a meaningful impact on the sport of golf. (Image: Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
After losing passion for "most things in life," Kirk is now embracing the discovery of "joy" in his journey to sobriety and rehabilitation through golf.
"I enjoy the challenges. It's difficult to excel at this, and I appreciate the journey it entails," he expressed.
"I enjoy putting in the effort to become the best version of myself. I've rekindled my love for this process and sometimes it pays off, like today, and other times it doesn't. That's just how it goes.
"I believe that to be successful and truly enjoy life as a PGA Tour player, you have to love the work."
Kirk hits from the fairway during the final round.
Matt York/AP
Theegala, chasing his second PGA Tour title, was forced to settle for the third runner-up finish of his tour career.
The 26-year-old Theegala expressed his disappointment at coming so close, acknowledging the limited opportunities in such a situation. Despite feeling emotional, he emphasized the positive aspect of having previous experience and viewing it as a valuable accomplishment.
Three-time major champion Jordan Spieth finished a shot behind Theegala in third, while South Koreas An Byeong-han placed fourth.
