Bold opening: Kim’s stunning Sunday comeback at LIV Golf Adelaide captivates the golf world, turning an improbable victory into a career-defining moment. But here’s where it gets controversial: does such a dramatic personal turnaround amplify the narrative more than the sport itself? Read on to see how a 12-year journey—marked by struggle, resilience, and a remarkable return—shaped a remarkable win and a dramatic team finale.
Rd. 4 recap: Kim captures LIV Golf Adelaide in a stirring, milestone-filled performance
February 15, 2026 — 6:45 AM
Written by: LIV Golf Staff
In a Sunday showdown that will be remembered for years, Kim surged to the top with a masterful final round, posting a 9-under 63 to win by three strokes over Rahm. It was his first professional title since 2010, following a 12-year hiatus dominated by personal challenges and a battle with addiction. He returned to competitive golf in 2024 as a Wild Card entry on LIV Golf, and just before Adelaide, 4Aces GC captain Dustin Johnson added him to the team.
Let’s call him “The Comeback Kim.”
“I really don’t know what to say right now,” Kim said, openly reflecting on his past struggles and his path to sobriety. “It’s been overwhelming. I’m never not going to fight for my family. God gave me a talent, and today I produced something special. I knew this moment was coming. If anyone believes in me, it’s me. For anyone who’s struggling, you can get through anything.”
Kim began the final round among the leaders but in the early going he played cautiously, opening with three pars before rattling off four birdies in six holes to turn strong. The front nine saw DeChambeau and Rahm trading blows as they entered Sunday tied for the lead, five ahead of Kim. While those two traded shots, Kim started to assert himself, landing key blows when it counted.
Two consecutive birdies on Nos. 12 and 13 gave Kim the lead, and he punctuated the moment with a jubilant display as the second birdie dropped, flipping the scoreboard to a one-shot edge over Rahm with the crowd roaring.
He didn’t stop there. Kim added birdies on Nos. 14 and 15, extending his advantage to three strokes and extending a streak of four consecutive birdies. After a steady par on No. 16, another birdie on No. 17 left him with a three-shot cushion heading to the final hole.
A routine par on the 18th sealed the win as Kim celebrated with his wife Emily and daughter Bella. The scene was emotional, with nearly every LIV Golf player joining in the celebration for a dramatic, feel-good victory.
Rahm finished solo second with a 71 (1-under) in the final round, while DeChambeau ended tied for third after a 74 (2-over).
Team competition spotlight
In the team competition, Legion XIII entered the final day holding a five-shot advantage over Ripper GC. The All-Australian collective, however, mounted a dramatic comeback. Ripper GC surged to win the team trophy by two shots, delivering a memorable hometown moment for Australian fans.
Summary
Kim’s Adelaide triumph marks a powerful comeback narrative, blending personal resilience with peak performance on a pivotal day. His win, alongside a dramatic team finish, adds a rich chapter to LIV Golf’s ongoing story and invites readers to consider how perseverance, support networks, and opportunity intersect in high-stakes sports.
Would you agree with the interpretation that personal adversity can fuel athletic excellence, or do you see it as a separate, inspirational arc that shouldn’t overshadow athletic merit? Share your thoughts in the comments.
