The golfing world may not yet be familiar with Kris Kim, the star of the 2023 Junior Ryder Cup. However, he will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression, as he succeeded in making the cut at the 2024 CJ Byron Nelson. The 16-year-old amateur golfer made his PGA Tour debut this week after receiving a sponsor’s exemption at TPC Craig Ranch.
Kim carded a four-under 67 on Friday at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson, bringing his two-day total to seven-under 135, narrowly making the cut by one stroke. The 16-year-old successfully making it to the weekend quickly garnered rightful attention. However, enthusiasts also took note of something interesting: his caddie. Who is serving as Kris? Kim’s caddie at the 2024 CJ Cup Byron Nelson? Let’s uncover the answer!
A recognizable figure on the golf course, serving as Kris Kim’s caddie
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Kim’s caddie, Olly Brett, in the $9.5 million event, is widely recognized within the community. Olly Brett, who usually caddies for LPGA pro, Rose Zhang, is currently at TPC Craig Ranch holding 16-year-old Kris Kim. Zhang is currently in New York, promoting the upcoming Mizuho Americas Open, and it has given time to her regular caddie to be on the greens alongside Kim. Brett has caddied for Zhang in multiple events, including the Maybank Championship, where Zhang finished in third place.
Talking about how Brett started his caddying journey, he spoke to PLTCA, and said, “When I was 17 or 18, I started making the yardage books on the Men’s/Ladies European tours. Many times during the first 3 years I’d be asked to fill in for players on my weeks off. Not before too long a player on the Men’s European Tour asked me to start full time. I accepted, and the journey began.” His favorite thing about caddying is being a part of the competition.
Rose Zhang isn’t solely responsible for Brett’s recognition within the community; he also has experience working with other professionals. One such partnership involves his journey alongside LPGA Tour veteran Danielle Kang. Beginning in 2017, Brett has been instrumental in five out of Kang’s six career LPGA victories and has joined her for two Solheim Cups.
Longtime @LPGA looper, Olly Brett, using an off-week from his normal duties with Rose Zhang to caddie for 16-year-old Kris Kim this week in the CJ Cup Byron Nelson.
The kid is playing LIGHTS OUT. 💪
Come watch the show with us on @PGATOURLIVE! pic.twitter.com/zAcB7JblP0
— Lisa Cornwell (@LisaMCornwell) May 4, 2024
Their partnership came to an end in 2023, yet Kang expressed gratitude towards Brett and their time together, stating to Golf Digest, “We had a great five years and I’m grateful for everything we achieved.” Brett has partnered with Mike Weir during the 2023 Masters. The 16-year-old’s expectations seem fulfilled alongside his partner Olly Brett after making the cut, aligning with what he expressed to the PGA Tour before his debut.
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What did Kris Kim say before his debut?
Kim expressed a mix of excitement and uncertainty about his debut, admitting to PGA Tour, “I didn’t know what to really expect,” but he also revealed, “Yeah, it’s been better than what we could really hope.” While sharing his sentiments, the 16-year-old also conveyed his readiness, stating, “We’re ready; I am hitting the ball pretty well.”
During this time, Kim also discussed Brett, mentioning, “My caddie on the bag is pretty calm, so hopefully he will keep me on the ground,” expressing his reliance on his debut partner. Kim also shared his expectations, saying, “Yeah, I’m just going to have fun out there and try to make the cut; I think that would be pretty cool.”
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Now that his initial expectations have been fulfilled, it’s just the beginning of Kim’s journey. What are your thoughts on the 16-year-old’s debut? Share your opinions in the comments below!