Post by : Maya Rahman

On Friday, Anthony Kim showcased his golfing prowess with an impressive, bogey-free performance at the PIF Saudi Invitational in Riyadh. Playing in the Asian Tour's second round, Kim recorded a remarkable 7-under-par 64, marking his best score since his return to professional golf. This stellar round brought him to an overall score of 11-under, placing him in a tie for third as the tournament progresses.

The PIF Saudi Invitational is the concluding event of The International Series on the Asian Tour, carrying significant weight for numerous players. Those finishing in the top two spots of The International Series Rankings will secure direct entry to the LIV Golf League for the 2026 season. Additionally, players ranked in the top 40 will qualify for the LIV Golf Promotions event scheduled for January, which offers two more spots in LIV Golf. Thus, every shot this week has substantial implications.

For Anthony Kim, this tournament signifies much more than just a competitive outing. It symbolizes his quest to return to LIV Golf, where he participated as a Wild Card for two seasons before facing relegation in 2025. Having joined LIV Golf in early 2024 after a lengthy hiatus from the sport due to injuries and personal trials, Kim’s journey has been arduous. His performance in Riyadh indicates that he might just be hitting his stride.

Kim’s 64 not only elevated him on the leaderboard but also showcased his increasing self-assurance. He concluded the round three shots behind leader Caleb Surratt and just two shots shy of second-place Thomas Pieters from Belgium. Currently positioned 127th in The International Series Rankings with only 13.46 points, this week presents a pivotal opportunity for Kim. With a whopping 324 points up for grabs for the winner, he stands a genuine chance to ascend the rankings and sustain his hopes for a LIV Golf comeback.

Following his round, Kim expressed contentment with his game's trajectory, noting that he is finally reaping the rewards of his training efforts. He acknowledged challenges in translating his practice swings to competition but feels that his form is increasingly manifesting in actual play. This newfound comfort on the course is evident in his scorecard.

Having once been lauded as a golfing prodigy, Anthony Kim is no stranger to high-pressure moments. He previously clinched three victories on the PGA Tour and delivered standout performances in major championships, finishing third at the Masters in 2010 and tying for fifth at The Open Championship in 2011. A key member of the U.S. teams that triumphed in the Ryder Cup in 2008 and Presidents Cup in 2009, his vibrant energy and daring style earned him a fan following before injuries interrupted his career.

At 40, Kim is determined to rebuild his career and reclaim his spot in professional golf. His showing at the Saudi Invitational underscores that he possesses the skill, resolve, and experience to compete at a high level. If he maintains the momentum displayed on Friday, he could make significant strides in the standings and inch closer to a return to LIV Golf.

As the weekend approaches, all eyes will be focused on Kim to see if he can sustain his excellent form. The competition is fierce, the stakes are monumental, and the opportunity is significant. This week might become a defining chapter in Kim's comeback saga—a moment to demonstrate that he’s ready to compete at the highest echelons of the sport once again.

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