PGA golfer Tom Kim is in the prime of his career. He’s making money and he represents his country on the world stage almost weekly. He’s a great utility golfer. Not always in the mix but he’s fun to watch. This last week, Tom Kim has been representing his home country of South Korea. But he’s felt more pressure than anyone. He’s had a lot on the line.

Military service is mandatory in South Korea. Meaning Kim would have to put his illustrious PGA career on hold to serve his country. He would miss out on potentially millions of dollars giving up 21 months of his prime years. Unless…

There’s a loophole. If Kim were to medal at the Paris 2024 games, he would be exempt from service. So that’s that. He has to medal to continue his career uninterrupted. Headed into the final round Sunday, things were looking good. Kim was positioned well. However, his game slipped and he ended up in 8th place. Other golfers like Scottie Scheffler consoled Kim after his loss as they knew even more was on the line for him.

Kim later said the idea of conscription to military service is not why he was shedding tears. He insisted it was because he felt he let his country down by losing.