Anthony Kim's Comeback Caps Remarkable Turnaround

After 12 years away, the former golf prodigy wins LIV Golf Adelaide tournament

Feb. 19, 2026 at 11:15am

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Anthony Kim, a former golf prodigy who disappeared from the sport for over a decade due to drug and alcohol addiction, made a stunning comeback by winning the LIV Golf Adelaide tournament. Kim's victory, in front of the largest crowd on the LIV circuit, was all the more remarkable given the long hiatus and his personal struggles to get his life back on track.

Why it matters

Kim's return to golf after such a long absence and personal challenges is a remarkable story of redemption. His victory shines a light on the power of perseverance and the ability to overcome adversity, inspiring others who may be facing similar battles. It also raises questions about whether Kim can sustain this comeback and potentially contend for major championships again.

The details

Kim, who is now 40 years old, was once considered a rising star in golf, winning three times on the PGA Tour and making a name for himself with his brash personality and impressive play. However, his career was derailed by injuries, off-the-course issues, and a lengthy absence from the sport. His victory in LIV Golf Adelaide, where he came from five shots back to win, was a testament to his determination to get his life and career back on track.

  • Kim won the LIV Golf Adelaide tournament on February 17, 2026.
  • Kim had been away from professional golf for 12 years prior to his comeback victory.

The players

Anthony Kim

A former golf prodigy who won three times on the PGA Tour before disappearing from the sport for over a decade due to drug and alcohol addiction. He has now made a remarkable comeback by winning the LIV Golf Adelaide tournament.

Tiger Woods

A legendary golfer who, like Kim, saw his career interrupted by injuries and personal challenges, but was able to make a successful comeback, winning the 2019 Masters Tournament.

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What they’re saying

“Who I am today is a completely different person. With God, my family, my sobriety being the key things to my life, I can go as far as I want.”

— Anthony Kim

“Woods was playing a practice round for the 2007 PGA Championship at Southern Hills when, during a wait on the sixth tee, he walked over to the side of the tee box and asked unprompted, 'What do you think of Anthony Kim?'”

— Tiger Woods

What’s next

Kim's victory has put him back on the radar of golf fans and media, and he will look to build on this momentum as he continues his comeback. His next major test will be the upcoming LIV Golf events in Hong Kong, Singapore, and South Africa, which could potentially earn him a spot in the Masters or other major championships.

The takeaway

Anthony Kim's comeback victory after a 12-year absence is a remarkable story of perseverance and redemption. His ability to overcome personal challenges and return to the top of his sport is an inspiration, and serves as a reminder that with determination and the right support, even the most daunting obstacles can be overcome.