Chan Kim Leads PGA Tour Q-School Final Stage Amid Personal Challenges

Chan Kim, a 35-year-old golfer, opened the final stage of the PGA Tour Qualifying School (Q-School) with an impressive 6-under-par 64 at the Dye’s Valley Course in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. This performance places him at the top of the leaderboard, one stroke ahead of Greyson Sigg and two ahead of a three-way tie for third involving Michael Feagles, A.J. Ewart, and Luke Gutschewski. The tournament, which runs from December 11 to December 14, features 174 players competing for five coveted PGA Tour cards for the 2026 season.

Ok Taehun and Bae Yongjun Tied for 110th

Kim's strong showing comes on the heels of a challenging personal situation. Just a day before the tournament, his newborn daughter, Jenna, returned home after a difficult start to life. Jenna was born via emergency C-section, weighing approximately 10 pounds, with doctors initially giving her a 30% chance of survival due to a severe condition known as hydrops. After spending time in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), her health has been improving, allowing Kim to focus on his golf game.

Day after newborn finally comes home, Chan Kim opens Q-School’s final stage with leading 64

Reflecting on his recent experiences, Kim noted the emotional toll of balancing his responsibilities as a father and a professional golfer. He stated, “I was so focused on that that nothing else really mattered at that point.” Despite the stress, Kim's approach to the tournament has been to play quickly and stay connected with his wife, Sally, through FaceTime after each round. This mindset seems to have contributed positively to his performance, as he aims to secure a full tour card not only for himself but also for his growing family.

Day after newborn finally comes home, Chan Kim opens Q-School’s final stage with leading 64

While Kim excelled, other competitors faced challenges. Seungyul Noh finished the first round with a 1-under-par 69, tying for 34th place. Ok Taehun and Bae Yongjun, both from the Korea Professional Golf Association (KPGA) Tour, struggled with 2-over-par 72s, placing them in a tie for 110th. The competition remains fierce, with players vying for both PGA Tour cards and Korn Ferry Tour status.

Ok Taehun and Bae Yongjun Tied for 110thDay after newborn finally comes home, Chan Kim opens Q-School’s final stage with leading 64PGA TOUR Q-School presented by Korn Ferry update: Chan Kim, newly clear-minded, leads after Round 1

Kim expressed his determination to succeed, saying, “I’ve got to find a way to make diaper money at least.” His lighthearted comment underscores the importance of this tournament not just for his career but also for his family's future.

Day after newborn finally comes home, Chan Kim opens Q-School’s final stage with leading 64

• “Doctors didn’t know if she was going to survive, which in turn just put us under a lot of stress.” — Chan Kim, Golfer

Day after newborn finally comes home, Chan Kim opens Q-School’s final stage with leading 64

• “Everything else is looking really good as of right now,” — Chan Kim, Golfer

Day after newborn finally comes home, Chan Kim opens Q-School’s final stage with leading 64

As the tournament progresses, Kim will continue to navigate the pressures of competition while celebrating his daughter's recovery. The outcome of this Q-School could significantly impact his career trajectory and family life, making the next rounds crucial for both personal and professional reasons.

Day after newborn finally comes home, Chan Kim opens Q-School’s final stage with leading 64