Kim In-Kyung, 36, dropped the shock news after the final round at St. Andrews on Sunday, announcing her retirement from professional golf.
No one expected that — not even her closest friends, relatives or coaches — and Kim told them Saturday evening that Sunday’s final round of the AIG Women’s Open would be her last game.
“I knew it was coming and I’d been thinking about it for the last two years, where would be a good place to play the last 18 holes,” Kim said.
“This is my 18th year and it feels like every hole adds up to 18 and everything just keeps on adding up to 18. I thought this was my last time.”
The highlight of Kim’s career came when she won her only major title, the Women’s British Open at Kingsbarns Golf Club in 2017. Michelle Wie and Georgia Hall finished in the top five that year, while Jodie Ewart Shadoff finished runner-up, two strokes behind Kim.
“To be honest, I feel this championship has been the most challenging as I have never played on a links course before,” Kim added.
“I’ve learned a lot about the ups and downs and have accepted some tough challenges but have also had some good days. Also, the relationship I’ve had with the R&A has been incredible. They’ve always looked after all of us and have been good mentors to me, so it’s all been good.”
An emotional Kim also expressed her gratitude to the media and everyone for their support.
“You all are so grateful to me. I don’t think my career would be possible without you all. I think you all always give me something to think about. Before I came here, I couldn’t speak English at all. As you all remember, my English skills were zero,” Kim said.
“Now I can speak English and play golf. I want to thank you all. My career has had many ups and downs, but thanks to you all, it has all been great. I am grateful. Thank you.”
Jack Mirko is a golf staff writer for SB Nation Playing Through. Follow For more golf articles, follow us on Twitter Jack Mirko In the same way.
