Professional golfer Tom McKibbin showcased his skills by setting a new course record of 60 at the Hong Kong Open, driven by his ambition to qualify for prestigious tournaments like the Masters and the Open. Despite receiving advice from fellow Ulsterman and mentor Rory McIlroy to consider joining the Saudi-backed tour earlier in the year, McKibbin chose to focus on his performance in existing circuits.
Having secured a top 10 finish in the Race to Dubai last season and obtaining a PGA Tour playing card, McKibbin made $5,768,351 in his debut LIV Golf season, finishing 17th in the individual standings. However, his current world ranking of 109 leaves him ineligible for the upcoming Major tournaments.
The Hong Kong Open not only boasts a $2 million prize fund but also offers a coveted spot at Augusta and Royal Birkdale for the top player not already exempt. McKibbin’s exceptional opening round score of 60, his best as a professional, reflects his determination to seize this opportunity.
Expressing his motivation, McKibbin emphasized the significance of competing for such prestigious spots, highlighting how it fuels his performance throughout the tournament. The young golfer’s decision to adopt an aggressive mindset and aim for every flag paid off in his remarkable round.
Transitioning to the professional circuit in 2021, McKibbin made history by becoming the youngest Irish winner on the DP World Tour at the 2023 Porsche European Open. His affiliation with Jon Rahm’s Legion XIII team, sealed with a $4 million deal, marked a significant milestone in his career, surpassing his previous earnings.
Although McIlroy cautioned McKibbin about potentially missing out on Major tournaments and the Ryder Cup, the latter remained resolute in his decision to pursue consistent competition opportunities. McKibbin’s focus on playing alongside top-tier players factored into his choice, considering his current absence from Major tournaments.
In a remarkable feat, McKibbin broke the course record at the Hong Kong Open with a score of 60, surpassing Aaron Rai’s previous record. With 33 LIV players participating in the event, including past champions like Patrick Reed and Charl Schwartzel, the competition promises an exciting lineup.
Additionally, upcoming tournaments like the Australian Open and the South African Open will also offer Masters qualification opportunities for LIV players, adding to the stakes in the golfing world. The Hong Kong Open’s position in the International Series Rankings on the Asian Tour further enhances its significance, with the top player earning an invite to LIV Golf.
