Tom Kim has made a bold move just days before the 2025 Open Championship, parting ways with his longtime caddie and choosing to go without a full-time swing coach for now.
The young South Korean star, once seen as one of golf’s brightest rising talents, has struggled with form this season and is looking for a fresh start. His decision to split from both his caddie and coach signals a desire to reset and rely more on his own instincts as he prepares for Royal Portrush.
“It’s been a tough year, not what I expected,” Kim admitted in a recent interview. “But sometimes you need to shake things up to move forward.”
The change comes at a critical moment. Kim has had a mixed run in the majors this season and has openly acknowledged the challenges of living up to early success. Still only 22, he’s determined to learn from the adversity and use it as fuel.
With a temporary caddie now on the bag and no official swing coach guiding him, Kim will head into The Open hoping that simplifying things will help bring back the confidence that once made him a breakout star.
“I’m trusting myself more,” he said. “This is part of the journey. I know there are better days ahead.”
Whether the changes pay off remains to be seen, but one thing is clear — Tom Kim is betting on himself at one of golf’s toughest stages.
