Who Is Jinichiro Kozuma? Japanese LIV Golfer’s Lifestyle and Career Explored

Amidst the presence of golf’s biggest names, a lesser-known talent, Jinichiro Kozuma, has emerged as a force to be reckoned with. With a remarkable 9-under 63, he has taken the lead in the first round of the 2024 LIV Golf Adelaide in Australia recently, setting a new personal best for his opening round in the league. This impressive feat has piqued the interest of the golf community, eager to see more from this rising star.

As Kozuma’s impressive performance sparks widespread interest, fans, and enthusiasts are now eager to uncover the story behind this mysterious golfer. With curiosity piqued, questions are mounting about Kozuma’s life beyond the golf course. Let’s take a closer look and explore the passions, interests, and experiences that shape Jinichiro Kozuma’s life outside of golf, delving into the personality and pursuits of this rising golf star.

What did the early life of Jinichiro Kozuma look like?

Hailing from Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan, Jinichiro Kozuma was born on July 7, 1994. Despite his public profile and sizable Instagram following of over 15k+ fans, he has maintained a certain level of mystery. Even though his golfing accomplishments are well-documented, Kozuma’s personal life and interests outside of the sport remain largely unknown, leaving many curious about the man behind the golfer.

As for Kozuma’s professional life, he embarked on his professional journey in golf back in 2012. While doing so he consistently participated in both Japanese and Asian tours. Additionally, the 30-year-old decided in 2023 to extend his career by joining the LIV golf series, where he continues to compete.

Although Jinichiro Kozuma maintains a level of secrecy about his personal life, it has been revealed that Kozuma has a sister named Kotono, with whom he practiced golf during their early days. Additionally, Kotono shares similar interests in golf and appears to pursue it professionally. Moreover, despite the community being unaware of his wife’s name, Jinichiro Kozuma has been married since 2022.

Despite entering the professional golf scene in 2012, the pro has harbored a passion for the sport since childhood. Kozuma’s affinity for golf began at the tender age of 2 when he first wielded a golf club. Credited to the Japan Tour Golf Organization, Jinichiro Kozuma’s early skills were honed under his father’s watchful eye. This paternal guidance likely played a significant role in his successful transition from amateur to professional golf.

Transition to professional golf

While initially training under his father, the 30-year-old, during his college years, was selected to compete in the World Amateur Team Championship alongside another Japanese golfer, Hideki Matsuyama. However, upon reaching his third year of college, Kozuma made the choice to embark on his professional golfing career in November 2012.

Nonetheless, it took some time for the 5 ft 5 in golfer to secure his first victory. In 2016, Kozuma chose to compete in the Japanese Challenge Tour, and it was at the 2016 Elite Grips Challenge that he celebrated his maiden win. Not long after, Kozuma took a step at the Japan Tour and enjoyed his second professional win in 2020 at the Mitsui Sumitomo Visa Taiheyo Masters. Following that, his third victory also found its way in 2022 at the Token Homemate Cup.

Continuing his professional golf journey, Kozuma achieved second place at the 2023 LIV Golf promotional event, thus securing his spot in the Saudi-backed league for 2024. He stands out as the sole Japanese professional golfer in the Saudi-funded league to have participated in two major events: the 2022 U.S. Open and the 2022 PGA Championship. Despite his successes in golf, Kozuma hasn’t restricted his life solely to the greens. He maintains personal interests and values his time for leisure and relaxation.

What other interests do Jinichiro Kozuma have?

Apart from his professional pursuits, the athlete demonstrates admiration for the legendary Tiger Woods, often expressing profound respect for both Woods and his exceptional skills in the sport. Additionally, the 30-year-old exudes a sociable nature and enjoys spending leisure time with friends on occasion.

In these instances, Kozuma exhibits a love for food, enjoying various cuisines while spending time with his friends. Overall, Kozuma appears to be an outgoing individual who relishes life to the fullest. As the professional golfer continues to progress through his career, there are undoubtedly challenges that lie ahead.

Do you think Jinichiro Kozuma has what it takes to become the next big thing in golf? Share your thoughts in the comments below!