South Korean star I K Kim has announced her retirement after finishing the AIG Women’s Open with a three-over final round of 75.
The 36-year-old, who won the Major seven years ago, shared that she had been contemplating this decision for the past two years. She felt that St Andrews’ Old Course was the perfect place to end her career.
“I’ve been waiting for this moment,” she said. “I knew when it would feel right, and today is that day. For the last two years, I’ve thought about it, and there’s no better place to play my last 18 holes.”
Kim didn’t stop on the iconic Swilcan Bridge during her final walk down the 18th fairway because she felt shy. “It’s such a legendary spot,” she explained. “I just walked past quickly.”
Retirement Reflections:
The recent AIG Women’s Open at Muirfield was historic as it was the first time it was played there. Kim revealed that playing at Muirfield before retiring was one of her goals . She continued playing for an extra two years just to achieve this dream.
Fans might think it’s bittersweet to see their favorite players retire after achieving their dreams.
Kim turned professional in 2006 and always aimed to complete 18 years in her career. She mentioned how significant the number 18 is in golf and in her life—she started playing golf at nine and now retires at 36.
She became emotional talking about what made her proudest: “I’m most proud of my hard work. I wasn’t the most talented but I loved golf. I traveled everywhere to learn and play, and I’m grateful for all the girls here who taught me so much.”
Just two weeks earlier, another LPGA Tour player, Mariajo Uribe, also retired after representing Colombia at the Olympics.
What do you think about Kim’s retirement?
