'Sold-out Man' Im Sungjae: "Marriage is a New Motivation"

First Official Interview at Hawaii TOC for the New Year's First Competition

Sungjae Im became a 'sold-out man' last month. Photo by Sungjae Im Instagram

‘Sold-out man’ Im Sung-jae (photo) smiled brightly.

On the 4th (local time), Im Sung-jae attended the official press conference for the first tournament of the 2022/2023 PGA Tour season, the Sentry Tournament of Champions (TOC, total prize money $15 million), held at the Kapalua Plantation Course (Par 73, 7,596 yards) on Maui Island, Hawaii, USA. He said with a smile, "I got married at the end of the year, and time seems to have passed really quickly," adding, "It feels like a motivation to work harder."

Im Sung-jae married Ms. Kim, who is one year older, on the 17th of last month at the Lotte Hotel World in Jamsil, Songpa-gu, Seoul. Im performed well at the TOC, finishing tied for 5th in 2021 and tied for 8th in 2022.

- How do you feel about getting married?

▲ It was hectic during the preparation process, but it was amazing. Getting married makes me want to start this year with a new mindset. In another way, it feels like a motivation to work harder.

- Where did you go for your honeymoon?

▲ Since there was a tournament in Hawaii this week, I came a bit early and went on my honeymoon. I saw a lot of things in Honolulu and had delicious food, so I had a fun time.

- Was there a tournament last year that you felt regretful about?

▲ The Tour Championship, the final event. I remember finishing as runner-up by one stroke. My goal was to be in the ‘top 5’ at the Tour Championship, so it’s still a bit disappointing.

- What is your goal for this year?

▲ To participate in the Tour Championship. I always want to perform well in major tournaments. Just like I have been consistent for four years, my goal is to be consistent this year as well. I want to avoid injuries, maintain good condition, and perform well throughout the year.

- This is already your third time participating in this tournament.

▲ I made the ‘top 10’ for two years. I have good memories here. I always feel good when I come here. The scenery is beautiful, and I like the course. Since the winners and Tour Championship participants play here, I hope to do well again this year.

- How do you plan to spend the Lunar New Year?

▲ I think I will continue to participate in tournaments in the US. I’m a bit disappointed that I can’t eat traditional Lunar New Year food, but I hope fans in Korea have a great Lunar New Year.