Kim’s stunning final-round 64 at Renaissance Golf Club delivered him a Scottish Open title he has long chased with considerable determination.
The 24-year-old South Korean defeated 2021 champion Min Woo Lee by two shots, bringing tears streaming down his face at the finish.
Before he could fully compose himself, his phone lit up with a message from 15-time Major champion Tiger Woods, the first person to reach out.
Kim made clear what that gesture meant to him, saying: “This was my first win in three years and the first person that texted me was Tiger Woods. Shows you the person he is and how much he cares.”
The two share a connection through TGL, the technology-driven golf league where Kim competes on Woods’ team, giving him rare access to one of the sport’s greatest minds.
Kim said: “Obviously on TGL, being on Tiger’s team, I’ve been able to ask him questions on certain things. He’s been really helpful a lot of the time.”
Beyond Woods, Kim has drawn inspiration from watching the world’s elite players, including Scottie Scheffler, noting their interviews and advice have profoundly shaped his mental approach.
He said: “I’ve leaned into the best players in the world, even on YouTube, I’m listening to them speaking in their interviews, just really trying to pay attention to those things.”
Kim had rocketed onto the PGA Tour as a fearless young talent, securing three Tour wins by the end of 2023 before admitting he “got a taste of humble pie” during a difficult stretch that followed.
His comeback has been steady and impressive, with a third-place finish at last month’s US Open now complemented by this Scottish title.
The victory carried deep personal significance, as Kim explained: “This tournament I’ve really always wanted to win. This is where it all started for me. It got me almost temporary status and I secured it next week at the British.”
He recalled painful near-misses at this event, including playing in the final group when Rory McIlroy won, making Sunday’s triumph feel especially meaningful and cathartic.
Kim said: “It’s really hard to put into words. If it wasn’t for all this media, all the photos, I would probably go in my room and cry for a couple hours. It’s surreal.”
He reflected on the difficult periods that preceded his return to form, saying: “I just remember how I felt a lot of the times when I wasn’t playing well and it was difficult. Golf is a very up-and-down sport.”
Thinking of those who supported him through the lean times brought fresh emotion, with Kim adding: “I thought about my family, all the people that have suffered with me and also celebrated with me.”
In a moment of quiet pride, Kim said: “I’m more proud of the moments I didn’t give up and I had doubts and all those things. Instead of going the other way, I kept going.”
The Renaissance crowds were largely backing home favourite Bob MacIntyre, yet Kim won them over with a display that helped break tournament attendance records.
Kim spoke warmly of MacIntyre, saying: “Rob has just done such an amazing job in his career. He’s one of the best players in the world. He’s always a good laugh.”
He also praised the supporters themselves, noting: “Scottish fans wanted Rob to win today, but I can still feel the love. The Scottish fans are some of the best fans in the world.”
As for the celebration, Kim smiled and confirmed his well-known teetotal habits would hold: “I still don’t drink alcohol, so probably it’s going to be a good water night for me. It’s going to take a few cans.”
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