Grace Kim’s Evian Triumph – A New Chapter in Women’s Golf
Grace Kim’s Evian Triumph – A New Chapter in Women’s Golf
Grace Kim’s meteoric rise culminated in a breathtaking win at the Evian Championship that few saw coming—but none will forget. On a warm July afternoon in Évian-les-Bains, Kim surged from behind with a birdie-eagle finish to force a playoff, then sunk a dramatic eagle putt on the first extra hole to secure her maiden major title. It was a moment of brilliance that captured not only the crowd’s imagination but also the global golf community’s respect.
For those who’ve followed Kim’s journey, the win was both a surprise and a natural culmination. A decorated amateur career, including a Youth Olympic medal and multiple junior titles, laid the groundwork. But it was her methodical rise through the Epson Tour—where she collected several top-10s and a win—that showed her readiness for the LPGA stage. The Evian victory was the confirmation.
Kim’s game blends consistency with creative shot-making. Statistically, she ranks among the leaders in driving accuracy and greens in regulation—traits essential on Evian’s tight fairways and complex greens. But it’s her mindset that truly elevates her game. She credits her mental toughness to sessions with her long-time performance coach, who instilled habits like visualization, breathing control, and acceptance rituals after missed shots.
That poise was tested on Sunday. A loose approach into the water on the par-5 9th cost her a bogey and appeared to sap momentum. Yet Kim bounced back with a string of pars and then attacked the closing stretch. Her 3-wood into the final hole was a calculated risk, and the eagle putt she drained from 18 feet was the product of hours spent on pace drills under pressure.
The playoff was equally dramatic. Facing one of the Tour’s longest hitters in Yuka Saso, Kim stayed within herself. Another fairway hit, a laser-like approach, and another confident putt. Game, set, history.
Off the course, Kim remains grounded. Her ties to her Korean-Australian roots, her close relationships with Minjee Lee and Hannah Green, and her humorous social media presence make her relatable to a broad fan base. She speaks often about balance—between competitiveness and perspective, between ambition and patience.
The Evian title immediately vaulted her into the top 20 of the Rolex Rankings and earned her a spot on the International Presidents Cup roster. But more than accolades, her performance offered a blueprint for young golfers worldwide: focus on process, stay true to your strengths, and never shy away from the big moment.
In a time when women’s golf is seeing exponential growth, Grace Kim’s Evian triumph may mark the arrival of a new global star.