Who Is Grace Kim? Inside the Age, Ethnicity and Family Story of Golf's Newest Major Champion

Grace Kim's dramatic victory at the 2025 Evian Championship has made her a global name overnight. The 24-year-old Australian golfer stunned the LPGA world with a playoff performance for the ages. As fans and pundits rush to learn more about golf's newest major champion, many are asking: who is Grace Kim, and what shaped her into the athlete she is today?

Grace Kim's Age and Early Beginnings

Born on 13 December 2000, Grace Kim is currently 24 years old. She hails from Sydney, Australia, and grew up in Greenacre, a suburb known for its cultural diversity. Her golfing journey began early when her father introduced her to the sport at a young age.

By the age of 12, Kim had joined Avondale Golf Club and was already displaying remarkable talent. She climbed quickly through the junior golf ranks, securing key wins in Australian amateur competitions before turning professional in late 2021.

Korean-Australian Roots and Cultural Identity

Grace Kim's ethnicity is Korean-Australian. Her parents emigrated from South Korea to Australia shortly before her birth. Raised in a household that valued both Korean discipline and Australian openness, Kim reflects a rich cultural blend that has shaped her approach to sport and life.

She has spoken about how her Korean roots instilled in her a sense of humility and work ethic, while her Australian upbringing gave her the confidence to dream big. This dual identity has become a quiet strength in her steady rise through the golfing world.

Family Support Behind Her Success

Family has always played a central role in Grace Kim's success story. Her father, who played golf recreationally, became her first coach and mentor. He not only introduced her to the sport but continued to guide and support her through junior tournaments, national events, and her early years as a professional.

Kim has often credited her family for supporting her through every stage of her development, both emotionally and practically. Their guidance helped lay the foundation for her resilience and discipline as she transitioned into the professional ranks.

From Amateur Standout to Major Champion

Kim's rise to the top of women's golf has been steady and well-earned. As an amateur, she claimed gold at the 2018 Youth Olympic Games and won multiple national titles, including the Australian Women's Amateur.

She made headlines in 2023 when she won the Lotte Championship, her first LPGA Tour title. However, it was her recent performance at the Evian Championship that truly announced her arrival on the global stage. Kim birdied her final hole to force a playoff against Thailand's Jeeno Thitikul. In extra holes, she produced a sensational eagle to clinch victory, earning points toward the Rolex ANNIKA Major Award standings, as reported by the LPGA.

A Role Model for the Next Generation

Grace Kim's journey is more than just a sporting triumph. It is a story of family, heritage and belief. Her success is already inspiring young athletes, particularly those from multicultural backgrounds, to pursue their goals.

With her calm presence, cultural pride and exceptional skill, Grace Kim is not only a champion golfer but a symbol of what's possible when talent meets unwavering support. As the golfing world looks to the future, one thing is clear: Grace Kim's story is just getting started.