In brief
Tom Kim captured gold in the men’s golf competition at the Asian Games, finishing 18 under par to beat competitors from Japan, China, Thailand and Chinese Taipei. The 24‑year‑old delivered a flawless final round, including five birdies and an eagle, to maintain a comfortable lead. By winning, Kim qualifies for a brief military training exemption, sparing him the full 18‑ to 21‑month service required of able‑bodied South Korean men. The exemption allows him to continue his burgeoning career on the PGA Tour without interruption, following four tour titles and a Scottish Open victory. Kim’s triumph also marks a significant moment for the host nation, adding to their gold‑medal haul at the Games.
South Korean golfer Tom Kim secured the men's golf title at the Asian Games, finishing 18 under par and defeating opponents from Japan, China, Thailand and Chinese Taipei.
Kim delivered a brilliant final round of 64, producing five birdies and an eagle, while a single bogey on the 17th was the only blemish on an otherwise flawless performance.
By winning, Kim qualifies for a brief military training exemption, sparing him the 18‑ to 21‑month draft that outweighs the majority of able‑bodied South Korean men.
The exemption allows him to continue competing on the PGA Tour without interruption, following his recent victories at the Scottish Open and four other tour titles.
Kim’s triumph also adds to South Korea’s gold‑medal tally at the Games and mirrors the achievements of athletes such as footballer Son Heung‑min, who received a similar exemption after winning the Asian Games in 2020.
