what happened to Anthony Kim
Definition
A ubiquitous internet search query and conversational phrase referring to the enigmatic 12-year disappearance of professional golfer Anthony Kim from competitive play after a 2012 Achilles injury, during which he battled addiction, contemplated suicide, and lived incognito, only to dramatically return in 2024 via LIV Golf and clinch a victory at the 2026 Adelaide event.
Pop culture shorthand for a golfer's improbable resurrection story, evoking mystery, personal demons, and a phoenix-like comeback that has golf fans perpetually theorizing about scars, bad company, and hidden golf swings.
Examples
After Anthony Kim drained that winning putt in Adelaide, my feed exploded with 'what happened to Anthony Kim' all over again.
Golf Twitter's favorite riddle: 'what happened to Anthony Kim?' Spoiler: Achilles tears, wild nights, and a LIV plot twist.
I asked my caddy 'what happened to Anthony Kim' mid-round; he replied with a shank and a sobriety tale.
From PGA prodigy to LIV Lazarus, 'what happened to Anthony Kim' is the golf equivalent of 'where's Waldo' with birdies.