Last year, Michael Kim was just hanging onto his PGA Tour status. Fast forward to 2025, and he’s emerged as a serious contender, much to the delight of his substantial following on social media. Last year’s near miss seems a distant memory as Kim now displays a level of skill that puts him amongst the top names of the game.
A clear indication of the significant shift in Kim’s game was witnessed at the WM Phoenix Open, where he shared the field with the notable Jordan Spieth and finished in a tie for second place. His momentum didn’t stop there. Kim also secured a T13 finish at both the Genesis Invitational and the Mexico Open, proving that his Phoenix Open performance was no fluke.
So, what’s the secret behind Kim’s sudden surge in performance? According to the 31-year-old golf pro, it was a chipping lesson he took from Joseph Mayo, who previously coached Viktor Hovland. Kim credits this lesson as a pivotal turning point in his game, which is reflected in his 2025 stroke gain stats around the green where he ranks 22nd.
Kim elaborated on this during a press conference at the Cognizant Classic, saying, “I’ve been chipping well since that lesson with Joe. While I hope not to rely on it as much tomorrow, I’m confident that if I need to, it will show up.”
Mayo’s association with Kim gains significance as he formerly coached Viktor Hovland before parting ways with him in November 2024. This seems to have worked out well for Kim, who’s now enjoying the fruits of Mayo’s coaching.
When we compare Kim’s 2024 and 2025 PGA Tour stats, there’s a marked improvement. He’s already earned $1.3m this season and stands at an impressive 20th place in the FedEx Cup standings. This is a significant leap from his 117th place finish and $1.4m earnings from 30 events in 2024.
The upward trajectory of Kim’s game has him firmly in contention at the Cognizant Classic, and there’s a high probability that he will surpass his 2024 earnings just two months into the new season.
As we approach The Players and Masters Tournament, Michael Kim is undoubtedly a name to watch. His recent performances and consistent improvement make him a dark horse in the upcoming tournaments, and it would be no surprise if he continues to exceed expectations.
