2024 The American Express: Top 10 power rankings in Palm Springs

Tom Kim acquitted himself well in his American Express debut in 2023. He probably wishes the whole tournament was held at the Nicklaus course. That’s where he went low for a 10-under 62 in round two.

Kim posted 3-under 69 at La Quinta in round one and posted a pair of 67s at Stadium. He had a solid week with his iron play. Kim was T-4th in greens in regulation (81.94%) and 16th in Strokes Gained: Approach (2.452).

Kim is looking to turn it around from his T-45th finish a couple weeks ago at The Sentry. It was his first tournament with new caddie, Daniel Parratt, so I’m willing to give some grace as that duo learns to work together.

The Sentry was dissimilar from the fine performances Kim put on in the fall. The 21-year-old was a winner in the fall at the Shriners Children’s Open. It’s easy to take for granted how he’s already got three career PGA Tour titles at his age. He’s the youngest to do so since Tiger Woods.

Kim also ended 2023 with a T-6th at the Cazoo Open de France and a T-15th at the DP World Tour Championship.

He ended last season 10th on the PGA Tour in Strokes Gained: Approach (.655). He was fourth in approach proximity from 125-150 yards (19’6”).

You’ve got to go low this week. Kim is able to, especially at venues that aren’t crazy long like this week’s. He was 14th in birdie average (4.22).