'Glad it's over': Kim powers to Games gold and military exemption
NAGOYA: Tom Kim shot a sparkling final-round six-under 64 on Saturday to win golf gold at the Asian Games – and avoid a long spell in South Korea’s military.
NAGOYA: South Korean golfer Tom Kim clinched a historic gold medal at the Asian Games on Saturday, avoiding a mandatory military service stint. The 24-year-old, ranked 32nd in the world, secured victory with a final-round score of six-under 64, finishing three strokes ahead of the field. Beaming with delight, Kim declared, "It's a crazy feeling, I'm just glad it's over.
This day was the longest day I think I've ever had in my life. I'm just glad it's done." The Seoul government grants military exemptions to athletes who win Asian Games or Olympic medals, allowing Kim to continue his professional career while avoiding 18 months to two years of compulsory service. Kim's triumph brings him personal satisfaction and gratitude, acknowledging the emotional weight of not securing an Olympic medal in Paris two years ago.
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