In a few weeks of watching English amateur Lottie Woad impressively make her major debut, another young British golfer is preparing to enter the PGA Tour. Beginning this Thursday, 16-year-old Kris Kim from Surrey, England, a standout in Europe’s triumph at last year’s junior Ryder Cup, will compete in Texas against some of the most skilled players in the world.
The field at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson at TPC Craig Ranch includes distinguished former number ones such as Jordan Spieth, Adam Scott, and Jason Day. Kris Kim, who clinched the Boys’ Amateur title last year, along with the European Individual Championship and McGregor Trophy, is highly regarded as the leading teenage prospect in men’s golf in England.
He has already secured numerous sponsorship deals under the relaxed rules governing contracts for amateur players. His partnership with the CJ Group has also resulted in a sponsor’s invitation to play this week, much to the delight of Kim.
“I’m so excited to tee it up in Texas. It’s what you work towards all the time and it’s an amazing opportunity,” he expressed with palpable enthusiasm.
The teenager hails from a family with a golf pedigree, being the son of South Korean former LPGA player Ji-Hyun Suh. Kris mentioned, “I’ll definitely ask my mum for advice. It is going to be a very different environment and you don’t know how you will respond to it. She’ll help me deal with it. She’s my coach and we talk about everything from dealing with nerves, taking one shot at a time, leaving bad shots behind and keeping it simple, right through to course strategy.”
His primary goal is to make the cut and gain valuable experience on tour. Despite his young age, he recognizes the significance of this opportunity in his budding career. Kris has been dedicated to golf since his junior days at Cuddington Golf Club in Surrey, where he diligently honed his skills after school and during holidays. His unwavering commitment has been widely recognized, and he is grateful for the unwavering support of his parents.
Leading figures at England Golf regard Kim and Woad as the two standout prospects for their country. It is without a doubt that the upcoming PGA Tour debut for Kris Kim in Texas will be an event to watch out for, as he continues to make strides in his promising golf career.