Redemption complete: Anthony Kim stuns major winner for emotional title
The 40-year-old produced a flawless final round to overturn a five-shot deficit in Australia.
Anthony Kim has completed a sensational return to the winners’ circle, firing a final-round 63 to defeat Jon Rahm by three shots and claim the LIV Golf Adelaide title a decade after walking away from the sport.
The victory marks a watershed moment for the American, who disappeared from the professional game in 2014 amid struggles with alcohol and drug addiction.
Now sober for three years, Kim produced a vintage display at the Grange to finish on 23 under par, eclipsing the Spanish former world number one who finished on 20 under.
It secures the Californian a $4m (£3.1m) pay cheque and validates a comeback that began quietly as a reserve player earlier this year.
A charge for the history books
Sunday began with expectations of a heavyweight title fight between overnight co-leaders Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau.
However, that anticipated duel quickly fizzled as DeChambeau flailed early, carding four bogeys in his opening six holes.
While the leaders faltered, the former Ryder Cup star launched a stunning assault from five shots back.
Kim’s redemption arc was sealed by a blistering stretch on the back nine, recording five birdies in six holes from the 12th to seize control.
Rahm, a two-time major champion, could only manage a one-under final round as the pressure mounted.
This performance evoked memories of the player who once held the record for most birdies in a round at the Masters before his long hiatus.
‘Blessed just to be alive’
The triumph is particularly poignant given Kim’s turbulent path back to elite competition.
After losing his card as a wildcard at the end of last season, he fought his way back via an international play-off and only joined Dustin Johnson’s 4Aces team this week.
Speaking prior to the final round, Kim reflected on his journey with profound gratitude.
“It’s to get 1% better every day, stay sober, enjoy time with my family – and whatever happens, happens, because all I can do is try my best.”
Other challengers attempted to mount a pursuit but ultimately faded in the wake of Kim’s brilliance.
DeChambeau recovered slightly to finish 17 under, sharing third place with Englishman Tyrrell Hatton and Peter Uihlein.
Australians secure team glory
While the individual accolade went to the United States, the local crowd had plenty to celebrate in the team format.
The all-Australian Ripper GC secured back-to-back team victories, following up their success in Riyadh last week.
Cameron Smith’s outfit finished two shots clear of Rahm’s Legion XIII to thrill the Adelaide galleries.
Marc Leishman was pivotal for the hosts, carding a fine seven-under 65 to finish tied with Smith on 15 under.
Gold Coast native Elvis Smylie also contributed significantly, finishing nine under just a week after winning on his debut in Saudi Arabia.