Kim Joo-hyung wins Scottish Open, ending nearly three-year title drought

Kim Joo-hyung, 24, celebrated a hard-fought victory at the PGA Genesis Scottish Open, marking his return to the winner's circle after nearly three years. His triumph at the Renaissance Club in Scotland, where he shot a final-round 6-under 64 to finish at 17-under 263, was particularly meaningful after a significant slump.

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I had forgotten how heavy a trophy is.

Once ranked as high as 11th in the world and a multiple winner early in his career, Kim had struggled for consistency. His victory at the Scottish Open, which he previously finished third in as an invitee in 2022, ended a 1001-day drought since his last win at the Shriners Children's Open in October 2023. The win also propels him back into the world rankings, moving from 152nd to 33rd.

Kim expressed his relief and gratitude after the win, admitting he had forgotten the weight of a trophy. "It's been a very difficult period for a long time," he said. "Golf is a sport with ups and downs. I've learned that you have to accept that sometimes things don't go your way, no matter how well you play, and sometimes they go better than expected."

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It's been a very difficult period for a long time. Golf is a sport with ups and downs. I've learned that you have to accept that sometimes things don't go your way, no matter how well you play, and sometimes they go better than expected.

The victory marks his fourth PGA Tour title, placing him second among Korean golfers alongside Kim Si-woo, trailing only Choi Kyoung-ju's eight wins. He also noted the encouragement from golf legend Tiger Woods, with whom he plays on Woods' TGL simulator golf league. "Tiger was the first person to text me after my win three years ago. He has helped me a lot in many ways," Kim shared.

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Tiger was the first person to text me after my win three years ago. He has helped me a lot in many ways.