Tom Kim Wins Asian Games Golf Gold To Earn Military Exemption

South Korean golfer Tom Kim won a gold medal at the Asian Games to earn an exemption from mandatory military service in South Korea, Bleacher Report, BBC Sport, and AP News reported. BBC Sport noted that the 24-year-old held the lead going into the final round before shooting a six-under-par 64 to finish at 18 under par. [1][2][6][8][9][10]

BBC Sport reported that Kim secured victory by three strokes over Kazuma Higa of Japan, Ding Wenyi of China, and Sadom Kaewkanjana of Thailand, who each finished at 15 under par. Wang Wei-hsiu of Chinese Taipei finished at 11 under par, according to BBC Sport. Kim recorded five birdies and an eagle prior to a bogey on the 17th hole, BBC Sport added. The victory represents his first title in nearly three years since his win at the Scottish Open in July, according to BBC Sport. [2]

In other Asian Games action, India defeated Pakistan by 19 runs to win the gold medal in men's cricket in Nagoya, BBC Sport and Cricinfo reported. BBC Sport stated that Abhishek Sharma made 61 runs off 28 balls and Tilak Varma added an unbeaten 51 off 22 balls as India reached a total of 211-6. [3][4][5]

Conscription in South Korea requires male citizens between the ages of 18 and 35 to perform compulsory military service. The Asian Games is a continental multi-sport event held every four years for athletes of Asia and is recognized by the International Olympic Committee. [12][14]