Anthony Kim handed major recognition after remarkable LIV Golf return
The LIV Golf star has been shortlisted for ESPN's Best Comeback Athlete award after completing one of the most remarkable returns in modern golf.
Anthony Kim's remarkable return to professional golf has received another major accolade after ESPN announced he has been nominated for Best Comeback Athlete at the 2026 ESPYS.
The 41-year-old LIV Golf star is one of four nominees in the category following his emotional victory at LIV Golf Adelaide in February, where he defeated Bryson DeChambeau and Jon Rahm to secure his first professional title in 16 years.
ESPN confirmed Kim's nomination on social media, with the former Ryder Cup star joined on the shortlist by Angel City FC defender Savy King, San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey and Texas A&M volleyball player Kyndal Stowers.
Kim's story is one of the most remarkable comebacks in modern sport.
Once regarded as one of golf's brightest talents, Kim disappeared from professional golf in 2012 after a devastating Achilles injury, with a series of physical setbacks bringing his career to a halt.
During his 12-year absence, he later revealed he battled drug and alcohol addiction, mental health struggles and multiple spells in rehabilitation.
His return came in 2024 when LIV Golf handed him a wildcard opportunity.
After initially struggling to find form, Kim earned his place through the LIV Golf Promotions event before signing with Dustin Johnson's 4Aces GC.
Inspired by his wife, Emily, and daughter, Bella, and celebrating his sobriety, Kim completed his extraordinary comeback by winning LIV Golf Adelaide earlier this season.
The victory marked his first professional triumph since 2010 and helped propel the three-time PGA Tour winner back inside the world's top 200 in the Official World Golf Ranking.
Kim has chalked up two top-10 finishes on LIV Golf this season, with his Adelaide win in February and tied sixth at Virginia in May.
Early voting on ESPN's social media channels suggests McCaffrey currently holds a narrow lead over Kim, although public voting remains open.
The winner of the Best Comeback Athlete award will be announced at the 2026 ESPYS on Wednesday 15 July.
Hosted by comedian Marcello Hernández, this year's ceremony will take place at the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center in New York City and will air live on ABC and the ESPN App.
Andy Roberts first joined GolfMagic on a month's work experience back in April 2011.
Andy then assumed the role of GolfMagic Editor in 2015.
