Golf’s worst-kept secret is finally out of the bag. For the first time in twelve years, Anthony Kim, who was formerly the PGA Tour’s top darling in the early 2010s, will take the field this week.
The Saudi-backed LIV Golf has roused the American, who hasn’t been seen or heard from since declaring an unofficial retirement in 2012, to come out of retirement. He will play in the league’s third tournament of the year on Friday in King Abdullah Economic City.
The now 38-year-old was pleased to collect a rumored $10 million insurance payment after a string of injuries hindered his rapid climb to fame, so the move constitutes a dramatic 180-degree turn in his life.
After placing second in his PGA Tour debut in 2006, Kim, often known as “AK,” developed a cult following due to his brazen demeanor and daring strategy. After just two complete seasons, the American had already won twice and was the face of the US Ryder Cup team in 2008 after defeating European heavyweight Sergio Garcia 5&4 at Valhalla. Six months later, Kim made history at The Masters by being the first and only man to make ten or more birdies in a round.
But the toll of injuries swiftly mounted. He fell down the rankings due to problems with his thumb, wrist, Achilles, and rotator cuff before disappearing after the 2012 Wells Fargo Championship.
