Meet the First-Time Major Champ Kim Sei-Young: Inspired by BTS and Tiger Woods' Legacy
Finding motivation can come from various sources, and for golf sensation Kim Sei-Young, it came from an unexpected beat. On an empty golf course at Aronimink Golf Club in Philadelphia, she found solace in the catchy rhythm of BTS's "Dynamite." This Korean boyband's hit melody became her inspiration, helping Kim dominate the 2020 PGA Championship and clinch her first major career victory with a five-stroke lead.
For a seasoned LPGA Tour player like Kim, focusing on mental strength and using music to influence emotions was essential to breaking through and winning a major title in women's golf.
"Motivation is crucial for athletes," Kim explained to CNN Sports. "Without motivation, a player lacks the drive and ideas to keep pushing forward. That's why I consider motivation vital."
So, how did Kim use BTS's music to keep her spirits high and push for victory on the course?
Inspiring Melodies
According to Kim, she typically listens to emotional music and watches funny videos to boost her mood. But during tournaments, she changes gears, focusing on inspirational content instead. This time, she watched videos of world leaders demonstrating how they manage stressful situations and cultivate positive thoughts.
Kim's strategy paid off, allowing her to navigate grueling competition and emerge victorious in the face of pressure.
A Stellar Career and Major Milestone
Since joining the LPGA Tour in 2013, Kim Sei-Young has consistently excelled, beating competitors at 53 top-10 finishes, of which 11 were career-defining victories. However, her reputation as a formidable player without a major victory often hung heavy on her shoulders. Her triumph at the PGA was more than just a monumental achievement; it filled a gap in her already-impressive career.
"I was hungry for a Major win because, without one, my success felt incomplete," Kim admitted. "Winning the KPMG felt like a puzzle finally coming together."
An Unexpected Breakthrough
Kim's victory in Philadelphia was not her first brush with almost securing a major title. In 2015, she came just five strokes behind Inbee Park, who went on to win five major championships. Fast forward to 2020, and Kim surpassed Park, securing a five-stroke lead of her own, demonstrating both her growth as a player and her unyielding determination.
Relaxation and Focus
Earlier in her career, Kim found herself pushed too hard during major competitions and sometimes overcomplicating the game. This time, she opted for a more relaxed approach, which ultimately paid off.
"I asked my caddy for only the distance to the pin, and I simply played the ball, disregarding any additional information," Kim said. "This easygoing attitude worked wonders for me."
This newfound confidence, which she channeled through the iconic red pants BTS fans associate with Tiger Woods, allowed Kim to post a career-best score of 63 in the final round and break the turn record by one point.
Inner Strength and Support
Kim's success is a testament to her inner resilience and the unwavering support of her fellow Koreans, including BTS, whose "Dynamite" was a powerful source of inspiration throughout her career.
"The melodies of BTS were my most memorable golf experience," Kim shared. "They were a powerful force in my career, providing the motivation I needed to thrive."
Frequently Asked Questions
- How did BTS's music inspire Kim Sei-Young during the 2020 PGA Championship? Kim found solace in listening to BTS's "Dynamite" before and during her matches. The catchy rhythm helped pump her up, providing the motivation she needed to win the tournament.
- Why did Kim choose to listen to different music during tournaments compared to her typical listening habits? During competitions, Kim switched her focus to inspirational content that boosted her confidence and kept her mind sharp. She watched videos of world leaders to learn how they managed pressure and maintained a positive attitude.
- What was the significance of Kim's win at the PGA Championship in 2020? Kim's victory was her first major championship win. She had already achieved several top-10 finishes on the LPGA Tour, but her lack of a major victory often weighed heavily on her. Winning the PGA Championship was a major milestone in her career.
- How did Kim's approach to the 2020 Women's PGA Championship differ from previous major tournaments? During this tournament, Kim opted for a more relaxed approach, focusing on the essentials and disregarding additional information. She also adopted strategies that helped her manage stress and maintain a positive attitude.
- What was Kim's motivation for wearing red pants during the final round of major tournaments? Kim started wearing red pants during the final rounds as a tribute to fellow athlete Tiger Woods and his iconic red shirt. She believes the color brings her good luck, as she often performs well when wearing red pants.
