.jpg)
The day Tiger Woods announced he was having season ending surgery, PGA commissioner Tim Finchem joined PTI for five good minutes with Tony Kornheiser and Michael Wilbon. Naturally, he was playing the glass half full angle and pleaded that Tiger's absence would allow some young, talented golfers to get more attention and confidence.After this weekend's AT&T National, we have one youngster stepping forward into the spotlight: 23-year-old Anthony Kim, who joins Phil Mickelson, Kenny Perry, and Woods as multiple event winners this season.
Kim's first title of the year came in one of the first major events following Woods' first absence, which served as a brief introduction. Sunday's win at Congressional, in the event Tiger hosts, should send a message that he's ready to assume the task of "challenging" golf's No. 1.
For golf's marketability, Kim would be a perfect rival for Woods, if there is such a thing. The Dallas-native is fearless, cocky and confident in his game, all traits that could make him a fan favorite competitor. Kim also has a party animal side, a wild demeanor that he had to tone down in order to elevate his golf game.
Who knows if anyone will ever challenge Woods while he's still in his prime, but it's nice to see a young golfer take advantage of his absence. A few more wins this summer, perhaps a major, and the hype for Tiger's return next season will be elevated even more.
more
Comment!