LIV Golf Adelaide: Anthony Kim's comeback fairytale perfect

It is probably the most unlikely story that LIV Golf has ever written in its history. Almost 16 years after his last victory and after a twelve-year period of complete isolation, Anthony Kim celebrated a comeback for the ages at LIV Golf Adelaide on Sunday.

The return of the "prodigal son" at LIV Golf

When Anthony Kim left the PGA Tour in 2012, he not only disappeared from the leaderboards, but completely from the public eye. Injuries and a severe addiction problem made a return to professional sport seem impossible for over a decade. But at the LIV Golf Event in Australia, things came full circle. With a flawless round of 63 on the final day, the now 40-year-old fought his way back into the limelight and proved that his motto "1 percent better every day" is more than just an empty phrase.

Here you can find the final leaderboard of LIV Golf Adelaide.

Battle of nerves at the "Watering Hole"

Kim started the final day five shots behind heavyweights Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau. While DeChambeau struggled with his game early on, a high-class duel developed between Rahm and Kim.

The decisive moment came on the 12th hole, the infamous "watering hole". To the deafening cheers of the Australian fans, Kim holed an almost five-meter Birdie Putt to tie the match. An emotional fist pump signaled to the competition that the old "AK" was back. With four more Birdies on the last six holes, he distanced himself from the field and secured the individual victory at this prestigious LIV golf tournament.

A triumph over his own demons

Behind the sporting success lies a human tragedy that has now found a happy ending. After his victory, Kim spoke openly about the dark years in which he battled daily with suicidal thoughts and addictions. The Californian has now been sober for three years. "Nobody has to believe in me but me," explained a visibly moved Kim after the tournament. "But for anyone going through a tough time right now: don't fucking give up!"

Things got particularly emotional on the 18th green when his four-year-old daughter Bella ran up to him. For Kim, this was the most important moment of the day - proof that he had not only won as a golfer, but also as a father and a person.

Local jubilation: Ripper GC dominates the LIV Golf team standings

While Kim won the individual competition, there was also reason for Australian fans to celebrate. Ripper GC, led by captain Cameron Smith, secured victory in the team competition. It was the second home win for the Australian quartet in three years.

Anthony Kim himself celebrated a brilliant debut for his new team, Dustin Johnson's 4Aces GC. Kim's dominant performance saw the team climb to third place in the overall standings and underlined the new depth in the Aces squad.

Record crowd: LIV Golf sets new standards in Australia

The event in Adelaide underlined LIV Golf's status as an entertainment brand that works particularly well "Down Under". With more than 115,000 spectators over the entire week, a new attendance record was set for golf events in Australia, according to the organizers. Greg Norman, in his typical manner, immediately called for a major tournament for his home country.

Meanwhile, Anthony Kim will celebrate his victory in his very own way: instead of a lavish party, an evening of TV with his daughter and the movie "Frozen" is on the agenda - a fitting end to a fairytale weekend "Down Under".