Si Woo Kim Targets Second PLAYERS Championship Title
Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida – South Korea’s Si Woo Kim is aiming to lift THE PLAYERS Championship trophy for a second time, seeking to join the ranks of Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, and Scottie Scheffler as multiple winners of the PGA TOUR’s flagship event.
The four-time PGA TOUR winner made history in 2017, becoming the youngest champion in PLAYERS history at just 21 years old. Now, eight years later, he is eager to reclaim his place at TPC Sawgrass and add another prestigious victory to his resume.
“It’s been a while since I’ve won, and I do have a thirst for another win,” said Kim ahead of his ninth appearance at THE PLAYERS. “But if I focus too much on that, it can make me anxious and affect my play. I want to take it shot by shot, and if the opportunity to win comes, I’ll be ready to grab it.”
With THE PLAYERS Championship introducing the Gold Man trophy—a sculpted figure of a golfer swinging, now part of the PGA TOUR’s official branding—Kim has an added incentive. “Since the trophy design has changed, it would be nice to collect the new one,” he added.
Fond Memories & Growing Confidence
Returning to TPC Sawgrass always brings back good memories for Kim, particularly when he steps into the Champions Locker Room, a privilege reserved for past winners. Only seven players have won THE PLAYERS twice since its inception in 1974, with Nicklaus remaining the only three-time champion.
Kim came close to contention last year, finishing T6 after a career-best final-round 64. That strong performance has boosted his belief that he can challenge the world’s best once again.
“I ended the tournament well, especially on the back nine. Finishing strong gave me confidence coming into this week,” said Kim.
Despite playing TPC Sawgrass every year, Kim still feels a sense of excitement and appreciation for the scale of the event.
“Every time I come here, it feels bigger than other tournaments. The TOUR puts a lot of effort into this event, and with the past champions and growing prize money, it’s no wonder THE PLAYERS is called ‘the fifth major,’” he said.
A Career-Defining Victory in 2017
Kim’s 2017 victory at THE PLAYERS was a defining moment in his career. He closed with a bogey-free 69, finishing three shots ahead of the field, becoming only the second Asian player to win the event after K.J. Choi (2011).
Now ranked 44th in the FedExCup standings, Kim has recorded four top-25 finishes this season, but winning at Sawgrass again would be another career milestone.
“It’s definitely the biggest tournament I’ve won. Looking back, I feel like I accomplished something great. Because of that, I want to win again,” he reflected. “As the tournament continues to grow and the prize money increases, I want to work hard to relive that great memory.”
New Perspective with Family Life
Since his 2017 victory, Kim’s life has evolved, especially with the arrival of his son, Theo, last year. Balancing fatherhood and professional golf has shifted his outlook.
“The emotions I had towards golf were huge. Of course, it’s still important to me, but I also have my family now, and my focus has shifted somewhat towards them,” he shared. “I feel less stress about golf now.”
Key to Victory: The Closing Stretch
Kim knows that success at THE PLAYERS often hinges on TPC Sawgrass’ demanding finishing holes (16-18).
“The 16th to 18th holes are tricky because of the hazards. When the wind picks up, they become even harder. The 17th requires precise calculation of the wind and distance,” he explained.
When he won in 2017, he played the final three holes in 3-under for the week. Now, with more experience under his belt, he understands the pressure that comes with trying to close out a win.
“When I won here, I didn’t know much about those holes. I was only in my second year on TOUR, and I can’t believe how boldly I played. I don’t think I even felt nervous at all,” he recalled.
As he prepares to chase history at THE PLAYERS 2025, Kim remains focused and ready to seize the moment once again.