Tom Kim, whose real name is Kim Joo-hyung, is rapidly becoming one of the most exciting young talents in professional golf. At just 22 years old (as of 2024), this South Korean golfer has already amassed impressive achievements, including multiple PGA Tour victories and a rapidly rising world ranking. His meteoric rise from a prodigious teenager to a respected figure on the PGA Tour has sparked interest in his age, background, and career trajectory.
In this post, we’ll dive deep into Tom Kim age, career, early life, and much more. You’ll get a comprehensive look at the man behind the nickname, and why his age might just be the least impressive thing about him.
Tom Kim Bio
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kim Joo-hyung (also known as Tom Kim) |
| Nickname | Tom Kim (inspired by Thomas the Tank Engine) |
| Date of Birth | June 21, 2002 |
| Age (as of 2024) | 22 years old |
| Nationality | South Korean |
| Height | 5’9″ (175 cm) |
| Weight | 160 lbs (73 kg) |
| Languages Spoken | Korean, English |
| Current Residence | Australia, previously lived in the Philippines and Thailand |
| Turned Pro | 2018 |
| PGA Tour Wins | 3 |
| Current World Ranking | 11th (as of 2023) |
Who Is Tom Kim?
Tom Kim, born Kim Joo-hyung, is a 22-year-old South Korean golfer who has made waves in the professional golf scene with his impressive mental toughness and skill on the course. Known for his steady demeanor and simple yet effective swing, Tom has captured attention not just for his talent but also for his youthful energy and calm under pressure.
After turning professional at just 15 years old, Tom rise has been nothing short of remarkable. In 2019, he clinched his first significant victory at the Korea PGA Championship. But it was in 2022 that Tom truly made his mark on the PGA Tour, securing his first victory at the Wyndham Championship, becoming the second-youngest golfer in history to win a PGA Tour event.
By 2023, Tom had not only won again, at the Shriners Children’s Open, but he also climbed to the 11th position in the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR), marking him as one of the top young talents in the game today.
Tom Kim Age: How Old Is He?
As of 2024, Tom Kim is 22 years old. He was born on June 21, 2002, in South Korea. Despite his relatively young age, Tom accomplishments on the golf course have far surpassed the expectations of many who’ve watched his career unfold. He turned professional at the age of 15, and his rapid rise through various golf tours speaks volumes about his talent and dedication to the game.
Early Start in Golf
Tom Kim journey began at an even younger age. His passion for golf ignited at just 6 years old when he picked up a club, and he quickly became a standout junior golfer. The encouragement and mentorship of his father, Changik Lee, a former professional golfer, played a significant role in his early development.
By the time he turned 15, Tom was ready for the big leagues. He became a professional golfer in 2018, beginning his career on the Asian Development Tour and the Korea PGA Tour.
Tom Kim Early Life and Family
Tom Kim was born in Seoul, South Korea, into a supportive and sports-oriented family. His father, Changik Lee, is a former professional golfer, and his mother, Kwanjoo Kim, was a chef who has also supported his career every step of the way.
The family moved several times during Tom youth, with stints in the Philippines, Thailand, and Australia. These international moves enriched his cultural experiences and further developed his game, allowing him to adapt to various golf courses and styles. Growing up in such a global environment helped shape Tom view on competition and gave him the mental edge he needed to compete at a high level.
Early Career Highlights
Tom Kim early career is marked by significant milestones. His first victory came in 2019 when he won the Korea PGA Championship. This win marked the beginning of a remarkable rise in the golfing world. He was soon playing on the Asian Tour and Philippine Golf Tour, before moving to the PGA Tour in 2022.
Tom Kim Amazing Career
Tom Kim career has been a whirlwind of success since he turned pro.
Key Milestones:
- 2019: Victory at the Korea PGA Championship.
- 2022: First PGA Tour win at the Wyndham Championship, solidifying his status as a rising star.
- 2023: Wins the Shriners Children’s Open and finishes the year ranked 11th in the OWGR.
Tom Kim ability to stay calm under pressure, combined with his strong work ethic and golf IQ, has allowed him to shine on the biggest stages. At just 22, he has already earned the respect of many seasoned professionals.
Tom Kim Professional Career
Despite being so young, Tom Kim professional career is already filled with impressive stats and accomplishments. Here’s a deeper look into his PGA Tour achievements and playing style:
| Year | Event | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Wyndham Championship | Winner |
| 2023 | Shriners Children’s Open | Winner |
| 2023 | Ranked 11th in OWGR | Achieved highest ranking to date |
| 2024 | Anticipated Success in Majors | Top 10 finish expected |
Playing Style
Tom is known for his mental toughness, a critical attribute for success in the high-stakes world of professional golf. His swing is often described as simple and effective, which allows him to avoid the pitfalls of overcomplicating things under pressure. His right-handed play and athletic build give him an advantage in terms of versatility, whether hitting off the tee or approaching greens.
Tom Kim Height, Weight, and Physical Appearance
Tom Kim stands at 5’9″ (175 cm) and weighs around 160 lbs (73 kg). His physique is athletic, built for stamina and agility, which serves him well on the course. His dark brown hair and brown eyes contribute to his youthful appearance, but it’s his focus and dedication that have earned him the nickname “Tom” from his favorite childhood character, Thomas the Tank Engine.
Tom Kim Endorsements
As his career continues to soar, Tom Kim has garnered several lucrative endorsements from major brands. Here are a few:
- Nike: Tom is sponsored by Nike, representing the brand on the golf course with Nike apparel and Nike clubs.
- Titleist: He also has a partnership with Titleist for golf clubs and balls.
- Kia Motors: As one of the younger athletes on the PGA Tour, his association with Kia Motors is another example of how quickly his star is rising.
These sponsorships underscore his growing appeal and marketability, particularly in South Korea, where golf is incredibly popular.
Tom Kim Net Worth
Tom Kim net worth in 2024 is estimated at around $5 million. His earnings come from a combination of tournament wins, endorsement deals, and sponsorships. This figure is set to grow significantly as his career progresses, especially given his young age and already solid performances on the PGA Tour.
Tom Kim on Social Media
In today’s digital age, Tom Kim has also cultivated a solid presence on social media. His Instagram boasts 254K followers, and he engages frequently with fans, posting everything from tournament highlights to personal moments. On Twitter, he has over 570 followers, where he often shares thoughts on golf, life, and his experiences.
Fun Facts About Tom Kim
- Tom nickname, “Tom,” comes from his childhood love of Thomas the Tank Engine, a reference he’s embraced and continues to use as a light-hearted symbol of his youthful energy.
- He speaks both Korean and English fluently, a skill that has helped him connect with fans and sponsors across the globe.
- He became professional at 15, a feat that very few golfers can boast about.
Tom Kim Real Name: What You Need to Know
While fans know him as Tom Kim, his real name is Kim Joo-hyung. The decision to go by Tom comes from his childhood fascination with Thomas the Tank Engine, which is a charming personal touch that makes him even more relatable to fans. This nickname has stuck with him throughout his career, adding a touch of warmth and familiarity to his public persona.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tom Kim Age
What is Tom Kim real name?
Tom Kim real
name is Kim Joo-hyung, though he is widely known by his nickname “Tom,” inspired by the children’s character Thomas the Tank Engine.
Where was Tom Kim born?
Tom Kim was born in Seoul, South Korea on June 21, 2002.
How many PGA Tour victories does Tom Kim have?
Tom Kim has 3 PGA Tour victories, including wins at the Wyndham Championship in 2022 and the Shriners Children’s Open in 2023.
What languages does Tom Kim speak?
Tom Kim is fluent in both Korean and English.
What is Tom Kim current world ranking?
As of 2023, Tom Kim is ranked 11th in the Official World Golf Rankings (OWGR).
Is Tom Kim currently in a relationship?
As of 2024, Tom Kim is not known to be in a publicly disclosed relationship. His focus remains on his professional career.
Conclusion
At 22 years old, Tom Kim has already accomplished incredible feats in the world of professional golf. With multiple PGA Tour victories, an impressive world ranking, and significant sponsorship deals, his future in the sport looks brighter than ever. His early start, mental toughness, and global upbringing have all contributed to his rise as a golf sensation. And while Tom Kim age is still young, it’s his maturity, focus, and talent that set him apart from others.
As he continues to compete at the highest levels, we can expect Tom Kim to remain one of the most exciting players to watch in the years to come. His journey is just beginning, and we’ll be watching his next steps closely!
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