Tom Kim captured Asian Games gold with a final-round 64, securing one of the biggest wins of his career and an exemption from South Korea’s military service.
Tom Kim came to Japan chasing more than another trophy.
The South Korean star delivered Saturday, firing a 6-under 64 to win the men’s individual golf competition at the Asian Games and secure an exemption from mandatory military service in his home country.
Kim finished the 72-hole event at 18-under 262, three shots clear of the playoff for second place. Japan’s Kazuki Higa claimed silver, while Thailand’s Sadom Kaewkanjana earned bronze.
The victory capped a demanding stretch for Kim, who traveled to Japan shortly after competing for the International Team in the Presidents Cup at Medinah.
He went 4-1-0 in that event before quickly shifting his attention to a tournament carrying enormous personal stakes.
“Despite that, I’m more proud that I’m able to bring a medal for my country,” Kim said after the victory.
Under South Korean law, most able-bodied men are required to complete mandatory military service.
Athletes can receive an exemption from the full service requirement by winning an Olympic medal or an Asian Games gold medal.
That made Saturday’s final round far more consequential than a typical golf tournament.
Kim admitted the pressure was difficult to ignore.
“I tried not to think about it,” he said. “I just tried to play the best for my country.”
Kim controlled Kasugai Country Club over the final two rounds, taking advantage of the par-5 13th with eagles on both Friday and Saturday as he separated himself from the field.
The 24-year-old has already won four times on the PGA Tour, including the 2026 Genesis Scottish Open, but this victory protects something even more valuable: the continuity of his professional career.
South Korea couldn’t complete the sweep in the team competition. China won gold, while South Korea finished second and Japan earned bronze.
That result had significant consequences for teammate S.H. Kim, who did not receive a military exemption because only gold qualifies at the Asian Games.
For Tom Kim, however, one of the most pressure-packed weeks of his career ended exactly the way he needed it to.
He left Japan with a gold medal ... and his PGA Tour career uninterrupted.
