Anthony Kim’s Incredible Comeback & Ripper GC Triumph at LIV Golf Adelaide

Adelaide, Australia – In a remarkable display of resilience and skill, Anthony Kim secured a stunning victory at the LIV Golf Adelaide event on Sunday, February 15, 2026, marking his triumphant return to professional golf after a 12-year absence. The 40-year-old finished with a nine-under par 63 in the final round, ending the tournament at 23-under, three strokes ahead of former world number one Jon Rahm.

Kim’s journey back to the top has been well-documented, battling personal challenges including struggles with alcohol and drug addiction. He hadn’t secured a professional win in nearly 16 years, making this victory particularly poignant. “I don’t really know what to say. It’s overwhelming, but I’m never not going to fight,” Kim said after his win. He expressed gratitude for the support he’s received, emphasizing the importance of family in his comeback. “My family,” he simply replied when asked about maintaining his belief throughout the arduous process.

The final round saw a dramatic shift in momentum. While Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau began the day as co-leaders, Kim’s exceptional iron play and hot putter proved too much to overcome. DeChambeau faltered early with four bogeys in his first six holes, opening the door for Kim to seize control. Rahm finished at 20-under, a testament to his own skill, but ultimately unable to match Kim’s performance on the day.

Kim’s victory is especially significant given his recent struggles within the LIV Golf league. After joining LIV in 2024, he faced challenges finding his form, with no finishes better than a tie for 25th in 23 tournaments. He was relegated at the end of last year but earned his way back onto the circuit through the LIV Golf Promotions event in January, joining Dustin Johnson’s 4Aces GC.

The win comes with a $4 million prize and is a major boost for Kim, who is now poised to benefit from LIV Golf’s recent announcement of awarding world ranking points to the top ten finishers in each event. Currently ranked 847th in the world, Kim is expected to see a substantial improvement in his ranking.

Beyond Kim’s individual triumph, the event also saw a dominant performance from the all-Australian team, Ripper GC. Captained by Cameron Smith, the team secured a two-shot victory over Rahm’s Legion XIII, marking their second home win in three years. Marc Leishman led the way for Ripper GC with a 7-under 65, while Lucas Herbert and Elvis Smylie both shot 3-under 69s, and Smith carded a 2-under 70.

Leishman’s bogey-free round was a key contributor to the team’s success. Herbert finished the tournament at 16-under, while Smylie, fresh off a win in Saudi Arabia, finished at nine-under. The team’s combined effort of 15-under for the day sealed the victory at 55-under overall.

“Unreal…” was the sentiment expressed by Ripper GC, celebrating their win in front of a jubilant Adelaide crowd. The team’s success underscores the growing strength of Australian golf within the LIV Golf league.

Kim’s comeback story resonated deeply with fans and fellow players alike. Commentator Arlo White described it as “one of the greatest comeback stories in any sport in history,” and the scene on the 18th green, with Kim swarmed by his colleagues, reflected the widespread admiration for his perseverance.

Kim also acknowledged the initial difficulties he faced even getting to Australia, citing visa issues. “I didn’t get tired today. I had trouble getting in here with visa issues. But hopefully with the love they’ve shown, I can get back in easily,” he said, expressing his gratitude for the support he received from the Adelaide crowd.

The victory marks a new chapter for Kim, who was once a rising star on the PGA Tour, winning three events and representing the United States in the Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup before his career was derailed by injury and personal struggles. His return to competitive golf, and now a victory, offers a powerful message of hope and resilience.

The LIV Golf Adelaide event not only showcased exceptional golf but also highlighted the power of perseverance and the unwavering support of family and community. Kim’s win is a testament to the human spirit and a reminder that, as he himself stated, “you can get through anything.”