PGA Tour Golfer Tom Kim Breaks Locker Following Playoff Loss in South Korea

INCHEON: South Korean PGA Tour player Tom Kim expressed his frustration by breaking a locker after losing in a playoff at the Genesis Championship held at the Jack Nicklaus Golf Club Korea. The incident occurred on Sunday following the tournament, which ended with Kim being defeated by fellow countryman An Byeong-hun on home soil. According to Yonhap News Agency, a photo taken by a reader on Monday revealed Kim's locker door was dislodged from its hinges inside the clubhouse. Kim, who has secured three PGA Tour wins, had been leading An by one stroke with just one hole remaining. However, he missed a crucial birdie putt on the par-five 18th hole, resulting in the playoff. During the playoff, the golfers returned to the 18th hole where An secured a birdie while Kim made a bogey, handing An his first victory in nine years. Despite the disappointment, Kim congratulated An on his win. Nevertheless, Kim's frustration was evident as he reportedly damaged the locker after the match. Kim, whose birth name is Joo- hyung, and An have a history of playing together, having represented South Korea at the Paris Olympics this summer and participating as teammates on the International Team at the Presidents Cup in Canada last month. In response to the incident, the KPGA Tour has announced plans to cover the repair costs for the damaged locker, with the intention of later seeking reimbursement from Kim. Additionally, the South Korean tour is contemplating disciplinary action against Kim, who was recognized as the Korean tour's money title, scoring title, and Player of the Year award winner in 2021.