The golfers who will represent Korea in the women's team at the upcoming Tokyo Olympics have finally been decided, based on the latest world rankings released on Monday.
Ko Jin-young, Park In-bee, Kim Sei-young and Kim Hyo-joo will compete for the gold at the Kasumigaseki Country Club in Saitama from Aug. 4 to 7, having ranked second, third, fourth and sixth, respectively, in the rankings.
A total of 60 men and 60 women take part in the Olympic golf tournaments. Each country can field their two highest-ranked players based on the world rankings, but the number can be increased to as many as four for countries that have more players among the top 15.
The competition for a spot in the women's national team was fierce as there are many Korean golfers playing at the top level.
Park is looking to defend the gold medal she won at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, where the sport was reinstated after a 112-year hiatus.
Kim Hyo-joo qualified for the Tokyo Olympics after tying for third at the KPMG Women's PGA Championship at the Atlanta Athletic Club in Georgia on Sunday. She carded a 10-under at the LPGA Tour's third major of the season, edging out Ryu So-yeon for the Olympic spot. Ryu came in 33rd at the event and ranked 16th in Monday's rankings.
Nelly Korda of the U.S. won the event, carding a 19-under 269 to finish three strokes ahead of compatriot and runner-up Lizette Salas. With the win, Korda pushed Ko down from the No. 1 spot, which she had held for almost two years.
"There are so many good Korean players, so I'm honored to be able to compete at the Olympic Games. I will do my best, as I don't know when I will get such an opportunity again," Ko said.
Park has her sights on a second Olympic gold medal. "Being able to make a second Olympic appearance means that I have played well for the last eight years. I have achieved my goal. I'm proud of myself," she said.
Kim Sei-young will also be making her second Olympic appearance. "I made a lot of mistakes in Rio. I want to make up for them since I've got a second chance," she said.
Kim Hyo-joo said, "I worked on my swing last week while taking a rest, and was satisfied with it at the major this week. I've got my shots back and gained confidence."
