'Korea's No. 1' Kim Tae-hoon "First PGA Tour Appearance"..."Primary Goal is to Qualify for Main Event"

[Asia Economy Kim Hyun-jun, Golf Specialist Reporter] "The first goal is to advance to the main event."

Kim Tae-hoon (36, Webcash Group, photo), the Korean Professional Golf Association (KPGA) money list leader, expressed his excitement ahead of the PGA Tour Genesis Invitational (total prize money $9.3 million) opening on the night of the 18th (Korean time) at Riviera Golf Club (par 71, 7,322 yards) in Pacific Palisades, California, USA. He said, "It's my first PGA Tour appearance, so I'm very excited and it feels like a dream," adding, "If I make it to the 3rd and 4th rounds, I will give my all to enter the top ranks."

Kim Tae-hoon secured his ticket to this tournament, sponsored by Hyundai Motor Company, last October as the champion of the Korean Tour Genesis Championship. He arrived early in the US on the 4th to adjust to the time difference and practice rounds, commenting, "The greens are fast and firm," and "Since it's winter in Korea, my practice volume is insufficient, but I can't just gain experience and leave." He also added, "Although Tiger Woods is not participating, I want to take a photo with him if I meet him as the host."

World stars such as world No. 1 Dustin Johnson (USA), No. 2 Jon Rahm (Spain), and No. 3 Justin Thomas (USA) are all participating, with 'The Hulk' Bryson DeChambeau (USA) joining to heat up the competition. Adam Scott (Australia) is defending his title, and Kang Sung-hoon (34) dreams of revenge after finishing tied for 2nd last year. 'American Express Champion' Kim Si-woo (26) and Lee Kyung-hoon (30, both from CJ Logistics) are also looking for their chance.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.