Kim Kaufman Bio
Kim Kaufman (born August 16, 1991) is an American professional golfer and LPGA Tour player. She was runner-up at the 2015 Blue Bay LPGA. Kaufman turned professional in 2013, gaining membership on the LPGA Tour in 2014 after a successful season on the Symetra Tour. Known for her competitive spirit and strong performances, she has faced challenges including health setbacks and has made significant career earnings in her journey.
Early Life and Background
Kim Kaufman was born in Huron, South Dakota, and grew up in Clark, South Dakota. From a young age, she showed exceptional talent in golf, becoming a six-time South Dakota Golf Association Junior Champion with a career-low round of 66. Kaufman was a standout athlete at Clark High School, where she won the South Dakota state championship four times and earned all-state selections throughout her high school career. She qualified for the U.S. Girls’ Junior three times, advancing to the quarterfinals in 2009, and participated in the U.S. Women’s Amateur on three occasions as well as two U.S. Women’s Amateur Public Links championships. Kaufman attended Texas Tech University from 2009 to 2013, where she continued to excel in golf. In the fall of 2012, she was ranked as the No. 1 golfer in the country according to Golfweek and was awarded the Golfweek Player of the Fall.
Path to Golf
After completing her collegiate career, Kim Kaufman turned professional in 2013 and joined the Symetra Tour. She made a remarkable debut, making 10 cuts in 10 starts and winning the Island Resort Championship after a playoff against Mitsuki Katahira of Japan. Her strong performance earned her a spot in the LPGA Final Qualifying Tournament, where she finished tied for 23rd, securing her membership for the 2014 LPGA Tour. In her rookie season, Kaufman achieved notable finishes, including a tie for 4th at the North Texas LPGA Shootout and a tie for 5th at the Canadian Pacific Women’s Open, concluding the year ranked 58th on the money list.
Kim Kaufman Career
Early Career (2013-2014)
Kim Kaufman’s early career was marked by significant achievements. In her first year as a professional, she made an immediate impact on the Symetra Tour, showcasing her skills and determination. Her victory at the Island Resort Championship highlighted her potential as a rising star in women’s golf. In 2014, she transitioned to the LPGA Tour, where she continued to build on her success with impressive performances.
Breakthrough (2015-2016)
Kaufman’s breakthrough moment came in 2015 when she finished as the runner-up at the Blue Bay LPGA, solidifying her status as a competitive player on the tour. This performance contributed to her finishing 45th on the money list that year. In 2016, she reached a significant milestone by crossing the $1 million mark in career earnings after a T7 finish at the Sime Darby LPGA Malaysia. This achievement marked a high point in her career, as she rose to a rank of 67th in the Women’s World Golf Rankings.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout her career, Kim Kaufman has achieved several notable milestones, including her impressive performances in major championships and her ability to overcome challenges. Despite facing health setbacks, including a diagnosis of mononucleosis and a wrist injury, she has demonstrated resilience and determination in her pursuit of success in professional golf.
Kim Kaufman Award Nominations
Kim Kaufman has received several nominations throughout her career, recognizing her talent and contributions to the sport of golf. Her achievements in both amateur and professional golf have garnered attention and respect from her peers and the golfing community.
Kim Kaufman Awards Won
Kim Kaufman has won notable awards, including the Golfweek Player of the Fall in 2012 and the Texas Tech Female Athlete of the Year in 2013. These accolades reflect her dedication and excellence in the sport of golf.
Kim Kaufman Family
Kim Kaufman is married to Johan Wolkesson, a professional golfer from Sweden. He has caddied for her during various tournaments, including the 2020 U.S. Women’s Open, providing support and guidance throughout her career.
Personal Life
In addition to her professional achievements, Kim Kaufman maintains a private life away from the golf course. She resides in Fort Worth, Texas, where she continues to pursue her passion for golf while balancing her personal and professional commitments.
