Anthony Kim Wins LIV Golf Adelaide After 12-Year Break

Fans are curious about the addiction that sidelined the pro golfer for over a decade.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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Professional golfer Anthony Kim made a triumphant comeback by winning the LIV Golf Adelaide tournament on February 15, 2026, after a 12-year break from the sport. Kim, who last won on the PGA Tour in 2010, had retired in 2012 due to an Achilles tendon injury and struggles with addiction and mental illness. Fans are now curious to know what specific addiction Kim was battling during his time away from golf.

Why it matters

Kim's comeback win after over a decade out of the sport is an inspiring story of perseverance and overcoming personal challenges. His openness about his past addiction and mental health issues also helps destigmatize these struggles that many athletes face. Kim's return to the top of his game is a testament to the power of recovery and the resilience of the human spirit.

The details

Anthony Kim won the LIV Golf Adelaide tournament on February 15, 2026, marking his first victory since the 2010 Shell Houston Open. Kim had retired from professional golf in 2012 after suffering an Achilles tendon injury and battling addiction and mental health issues. In a 2025 Instagram post, Kim revealed that he had been sober for two years after struggling with alcohol and drug addiction that nearly cost him his life. Kim said he was suicidal for nearly 20 years and had to be assisted into rehab, where he found faith, self-love, and a renewed sense of purpose.

  • Anthony Kim last won on the PGA Tour in 2010 at the Shell Houston Open.
  • Kim retired from professional golf in 2012 due to an Achilles tendon injury and addiction issues.
  • In February 2025, Kim announced on Instagram that he had been sober for two years.
  • Kim made his return to professional golf in 2024 at the LIV Golf event in Saudi Arabia, where he finished in last place.
  • Kim won the LIV Golf Adelaide tournament on February 15, 2026, his first victory in 12 years.

The players

Anthony Kim

A professional golfer who won three times on the PGA Tour before the age of 25. He was part of the winning 2008 Ryder Cup team and set a Masters single-round record with 11 birdies in 2009. Kim retired in 2012 due to injury and addiction issues but made a triumphant comeback by winning the LIV Golf Adelaide tournament in 2026.

Emily

Anthony Kim's wife, who provided support and encouragement during his recovery from addiction.

Bella

Anthony Kim's young daughter, who also motivated him during his treatment and recovery.

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What they’re saying

“Two years sober. Biggest accomplishment of my life. I was barely physically able to walk into REHAB, needing assistance from my sober coach as my body was shutting down. The 1st pic is of what I had to take twice a day to safely withdraw.”

— Anthony Kim (Instagram)

“I contemplated ending my life every day for almost two decades. Even while playing @pgatour when I to the public seemed happy while struggling w addiction & mental illness.”

— Anthony Kim (Instagram)

“This post isn't to tell everyone to get sober but for people who r letting addiction ruin their lives, as I did, that u can turn ur life around.”

— Anthony Kim (Instagram)

What’s next

Anthony Kim plans to continue competing on the LIV Golf tour, with his next event scheduled for April 2026 in Singapore.

The takeaway

Anthony Kim's remarkable comeback after overcoming addiction and mental health struggles serves as an inspiration to others facing similar challenges. His story highlights the importance of seeking help, finding purpose, and never giving up on one's dreams, no matter how long the road to recovery may be.