Lee Sung-taek, a 31-year-old Korean professional golfer, has concluded his breakthrough PGA Tour debut season ahead of schedule following ankle surgery. Officials expect his return to the course early next year after a 3-4 month rehabilitation period.
Injury Derails Promising Start
Lee underwent ligament repair and triangular bone removal surgery on his ankle after experiencing persistent issues. Medical experts performed the outpatient procedure at a specialized facility, followed by targeted rehab at Samgakbuk Golf Hospital.
His agency confirmed the timeline, stating, “Lee received extensive ankle joint ligament suturing and triangular bone excision surgeries this season. Full recovery should take 3-4 months, aligning with an early 2026 comeback.”
Strong Showings in Key Events
Entering the American Express tournament in January, Lee surged to 8-under-par after two rounds. A two-over third round led to a missed cut, but he showcased potential against top competition.
He pressed on at the Sony Open, yet faltered amid the injury. Returning to Korea, he secured the necessary medical clearance for surgery to address the root cause.
Lee reflected, “Congratulations poured in from many, yet my heart weighs heavy—it’s not ideal. With proper surgery and rehab, I’ll return next year as a stronger competitor.”
Trailblazing Career Milestones
As the first KPGA Tour Genesis Points specialist, Lee claimed victories in two majors across two nations plus one tour win, earning PGA Tour special exemption.
In September 2024, he ended a 10-year KPGA drought with a win at the Lexus Masters, securing top-5 Genesis ranking for PGA Q-School second-stage qualification.
Securing top-seed status propelled his 2025 Korn Ferry Tour starts, where he climbed to 13th in standings—within striking distance of a PGA card.
Post-debut, Lee noted, “Daily training targets victories, but I stay grounded without overhyping. With just four events, I fully immersed myself.”
His PGA record stands at four starts, highlighted by a T48 finish at the recent WM Phoenix Open, pocketing $24,608 (approximately 36 million won).
