In the high-stakes world of the 2025 PGA Tour season, Michael Kim has emerged as a strong contender for the Arnold Palmer Invitational. His performance so far has been nothing short of remarkable, featuring a round of five under that propelled him just five strokes behind the leader, Collin Morikawa.
The final round at Bay Hill is expected to be a grueling one, with challenging winds and firm greens. However, Kim, on a roll from his recent successes, is confident that he has what it takes to claim victory. This would be a fitting crown to his exceptional start to the year.
One of the most notable highlights of Kim’s performance was his stunning bunker shot on the 12th hole, which resulted in an eagle. But what makes this event even more intriguing is the backstory. Prior to the shot, Kim engaged in a conversation with an on-course volunteer. The volunteer expressed confidence in Kim’s ability to handle the lie he had given him in the bunker. Kim, in a humorous spirit, responded that he’d be delighted if he could just get the ball within 10 feet of the hole. As fortune would have it, he not only met that goal but exceeded it by holing the shot. In a gesture of gratitude, he gifted the ball to the volunteer who had inspired him.
Kim’s incredible journey in the 2025 season is a testament to his resilience and determination. After barely managing to retain his card in 2024, he has now positioned himself as a frontrunner in almost every tournament of the current season, following his initial miss at the Farmers. This newfound form suggests that a win may be just around the corner for him. And if that win were to occur at Bay Hill, it would undoubtedly be the most significant of his career thus far.
Kim’s career record includes just one PGA Tour event victory. Yet, if he were to clinch the title at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, it would be an extraordinary achievement. It would not only testify to his incredible talent and hard work but also serve as a testament to the unpredictability and excitement of the sport of golf itself. In a world where every stroke can make or break a career, Michael Kim has proven that he has the mettle to rise to the occasion.
