Tom Kim Finds His Centre at Augusta
Tom Kim returns to The Masters with peace in his heart, maturity in his game and a quiet mission to honour something greater than himself.
Augusta, Georgia - Tom Kim isn’t just returning to Augusta National this week—he’s arriving with perspective. The 21-year-old Korean star exudes calm, a player who’s found stillness in the storm of professional golf.
“The Masters always brings a flutter of excitement,” he said. “It feels like the first time, every time I walk in. I just want Thursday to come quickly so I can get started.”
The subtleties of Augusta’s winds, especially in the notorious Amen Corner, remain a key concern. “You really feel it swirl there,” Kim said. “There aren’t many trees in some spots, but that doesn’t make it simple. It’s all about picking the right moment—and trusting it.”
Kim will be hoping to channel the freedom he found in last year’s final round, when a relaxed mindset brought a late surge. “I didn’t play well the first three days, but then I just let go,” he recalled. “That helped me. I want to play that way again this year—free and focused.”
Now in his fourth season on the PGA Tour, the young man who once played on wide-eyed excitement is stepping into a new mindset. “I used to come out here for the thrill,” he said. “But I’ve learned. I’ve been through things. It’s time to play with more responsibility—and for something bigger than me. I want to give glory to God.”
Faith, he says, has become his anchor. “Before, if things didn’t go my way, I got frustrated—really down. But I’ve found peace now,” he said. “I think I’ve grown, not just as a golfer but as a man. I just try to stay humble and do my best.”
Kim’s game is in a solid place, even if the scorecard hasn’t always reflected it. “My body feels great,” he said. “The results haven’t shown it, but I know that even in the hard moments, I can focus and still find a way. I’ll bring back the good memories from past majors.”
There’s added comfort this week, with his entire family joining him at Augusta. “It’s a special week for us,” he said. “To have them here—it gives me strength.”
With three Korean players in the field, Kim hopes they’ll all rise to the challenge. “It’s a tough course, but we’ll give it our all,” he said. “Thanks to everyone for your support—it means so much.”