What Happened to Anthony Kim? The Comeback No One Saw Coming 2026
For more than a decade, one question echoed through the golfing world: what happened to Anthony Kim?
Once one of the brightest stars in professional golf, Kim vanished at the peak of his career—only to return years later with a story far bigger than trophies or rankings.
As of February 15, 2026, that question has a stunning new chapter. Anthony Kim has completed one of the most extraordinary comebacks in modern sports by winning LIV Golf Adelaide, his first professional victory in nearly 16 years.
Table of Contents
Who Was Anthony Kim Before He Disappeared?
Before fans asked what happened to Anthony Kim, they were asking how great can he become?
- Former World No. 6
- 3 PGA Tour wins between 2008 and 2010
- A breakout star at the 2008 Ryder Cup
- Known for fearless shot-making and raw emotion
At just 26 years old, Kim looked destined to be one of golf’s defining players.
Then, suddenly, he was gone.
Anthony Kim Story
Anthony Kim Story is one of the most remarkable comeback tales in modern sports. Once a world No. 6 and a rising superstar in golf, Anthony Kim disappeared from the professional scene for over a decade due to severe injuries, personal struggles, and circumstances away from the game. After 12 years, he returned through LIV Golf, endured early challenges, and finally completed an emotional comeback by winning LIV Golf Adelaide in 2026. The Anthony Kim Story today represents resilience, redemption, and the power of never giving up.
Career-Altering Injuries
In 2012, Kim suffered a torn Achilles tendon, requiring surgery. That injury was only the beginning. Over the following years, he underwent:
- Multiple hand surgeries
- Shoulder surgery
- A spinal fusion
Each setback pushed him further away from competitive golf.
The Insurance Policy That Changed Everything
For years, rumors swirled about a massive disability insurance policy estimated between $10–$20 million.
Kim later confirmed the policy existed and that returning to professional golf would void it.
For fans wondering what happened to Anthony Kim, this explained why he stayed away even as his body slowly healed.
Personal Struggles Behind Closed Doors
Away from the public eye, Kim lived largely as a recluse in Dallas. In recent interviews, he revealed deeply personal struggles:
- Battles with addiction
- Long-term mental health challenges
- Admitting he had contemplated suicide for nearly two decades
It was not just a physical disappearance it was an emotional one.
The Comeback Begins (2024–2026)
Return Through LIV Golf
In February 2024, Anthony Kim officially returned to professional golf by joining the LIV Golf League as a wildcard.
The comeback was real but it wasn’t easy.
- 2024–2025: Finished near the bottom of standings
- Struggled with form and consistency
- Relegated after the 2025 season
For a moment, it looked like the answer to what happened to Anthony Kim might end in disappointment.
Fighting His Way Back
In January 2026, Kim earned redemption by finishing third in the LIV Golf Promotions event, securing his place back in the league.
He wasn’t just back he was building something.
The Moment Everything Changed: LIV Golf Adelaide 2026
On February 15, 2026, Anthony Kim delivered a performance few thought possible.
- Team: 4Aces GC (captained by Dustin Johnson)
- Final round: 9-under-par 63
- Venue: The Grange Golf Club
- Margin: Won by three strokes over Jon Rahm
It was his first professional win since the 2010 Houston Open.
After nearly 16 years, the question what happened to Anthony Kim finally had an answer: he survived, he returned, and he won.
Anthony Kim Career Snapshot
| Period | Highlights |
| Early Career | 3 PGA Tour wins, Ryder Cup star |
| The Gap | 12 years away from competitive golf |
| Now | Winner of LIV Golf Adelaide 2026 |
| Ranking | Jumped to around World No. 200 |
A New Purpose Beyond Golf
Kim credits his recovery and return to:
- His wife Emily
- His daughter Bella
Today, he says golf is no longer just about winning—it’s a platform to help others facing dark moments, the same ones he battled for years.
Final Thoughts: What Happened to Anthony Kim?
So, what happened to Anthony Kim?
He didn’t just disappear.
He fought injuries, walked away from millions, battled inner demons, rebuilt himself quietly and came back on his own terms.
His victory in Adelaide isn’t just a comeback win.
It’s one of the most human stories professional golf has ever seen.
Why did Anthony Kim disappear from golf?
Due to severe injuries, a disability insurance policy, and personal struggles including mental health issues.
When did Anthony Kim return to professional golf?
He returned in February 2024 by joining LIV Golf.
Has Anthony Kim won again?
Yes. He won LIV Golf Adelaide in February 2026.
How long was Anthony Kim away from competitive golf?
Approximately 12 years (2012–2024).
What is Anthony Kim doing now?
He is an active LIV Golf player and uses his platform to raise awareness about mental health.