Golfer Tom Kim has secured a gold medal at the Asian Games, a victory that grants him an exemption from mandatory military service in South Korea. The 24-year-old led going into the final round and delivered a six-under-par 64, finishing 18 under to claim a three-stroke win.
Kim's performance included five birdies and an eagle, giving him enough margin for error despite a bogey on the 17th. He tapped in for par on the final hole, visibly relieved.
Able-bodied South Korean males are typically required to complete between 18 and 21 months of military service before turning 28. However, the government offers exemptions to Asian Games champions and Olympic medal-winners, requiring only basic training of less than a month.
Kim's efforts at the Kasugai Country Club in Japan followed a rushed journey from the Presidents Cup in the United States, managing on limited sleep and a significant time difference. This exemption means the world number 32 can continue his career, which already includes four PGA Tour titles and a Scottish Open win in July, with minimal interruption.