Anthony Kim Parents: Meet Miryoung Kim, Paul Kim

Anthony Ha-Jin Kim, the accomplished American professional golfer, owes his journey in the world of golf to the guidance and influence of his parents, Miryoung Kim and Paul Kim.

Born in Los Angeles, California, to Korean American parents, Anthony Kim’s early life took a turn that would shape his future career.

Raised in Dallas, Texas, Kim’s athletic pursuits initially led him to basketball during his high school years at La Quinta High School in La Quinta, California. However, a series of ankle injuries during his sophomore year prompted a pivotal moment in his life.

Recalling the decisive shift, Kim shared in an interview with the PGA Tour in 2009, “My mom and dad told me to look in the mirror and see what I thought I could do as a profession. And that was it. No more basketball after that.”

The support and guidance from Miryoung Kim and Paul Kim played a crucial role in steering Anthony toward a different path – golf. Kim’s father, Paul Kim, provided straightforward advice, recognizing the challenges of pursuing a career in basketball.

According to Anthony, his father stated, “‘You are not going to make it to the (NBA).’ ‘What you can do is play golf.’” This pragmatic guidance from his father laid the foundation for Kim’s journey into the world of professional golf.

After high school, Anthony Kim continued his education at the University of Oklahoma for three years, where he not only pursued academic excellence but also set the school record for the lowest career scoring average in relation to par. During this period, he crossed paths with Brodie Flanders, who would later become his caddie.

Kim’s achievements extended beyond the collegiate level, as he was part of the winning USA team in the 2005 Walker Cup, showcasing his golfing prowess even before turning professional.

In 2006, Anthony Kim made the pivotal decision to turn pro, marking the beginning of a promising career in golf. He secured three PGA Tour wins and earned recognition as one of the top players in the sport. However, an injury in 2012 disrupted his professional journey, leading to a hiatus from PGA Tour events.

While Anthony Kim’s golfing achievements have been widely celebrated, it is the influence and support of his parents, Miryoung Kim and Paul Kim, that set the stage for his remarkable career in the world of professional golf.