Gina Kim has made a name for herself in just her first year as a professional. The 2022 rookie has played in at least five events each on both the Epson and LPGA Tours, recording one victory and three top-10 finishes on the Epson Tour. She’s made three cuts in nine starts on the LPGA Tour.
“Rollercoaster,” said Kim. “If I had to describe it in one word. There’s been a lot of ups and downs and a lot of navigating the unknown. I’m just trying to figure out my way around both tours as a rookie.”
Currently, Kim holds the No. 6 spot on the Epson Tour’s Official Money List, putting her in a good position to fulfill her short-term goal of keeping her card.
“It’s been tough, but it’s been rewarding at the same time,” said Kim. “I’m still going through it, and I’m still grinding it out, so hopefully I can keep my card for next season.”
Just last week, Kim traveled to France to play in The Amundi Evian Championship. Although she did not make the cut, the rookie was able to get two international rounds under her belt as well as make memories and set goals.
“On Sunday I got to watch Brooke Henderson make that putt to become another major champion once again,” said Kim. “Just seeing that in person and hearing how loud people were cheering for her, it made me feel like that’s the position I want to be in too one day.”
Kim’s Epson Tour win at the Inova Mission Inn Resort & Club Championship, as well as her two additional top-10 finishes, gives her confidence when playing on the LPGA Tour. She uses it to drive positivity.
“It’s the confirmation that I definitely have the game to excel on the highest level,” said Kim. “I take that as solid evidence and constantly use that as a reminder for myself when I’m out there playing with the big girls.”
While Kim enjoys the grind of playing on both tours, she also says it can get difficult at times. To keep herself in the game, she focuses on the end goal – winning tournaments.
“Regardless of what tour I’m on, I’m always trying to win,” said Kim. “I just take that winning mindset and try to go into every event the same way.”
Through the ups and downs, Kim recognizes how lucky she is to have the opportunity to play professional golf, especially on both tours.
“It’s been a lot, but I feel like I’m blessed to even get the chance to do these types of things,” said Kim. “I kind of have that positive mindset, and even though I’m a little tired, I’m looking forward to another great week of golf.”
Kim tees it up on Battle Creek Country Club’s No. 10 at 8:36 a.m. on Friday with hopes of walking away the FireKeepers Casino Hotel Championship winner.
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