ST ANDREWS - In a poignant scene befitting her distinguished career, IK Kim brought the curtain down on her LPGA journey at the venue where the sport's history was forged.

The 36-year-old Korean star fought back tears after completing her final round over the iconic Old Course on Sunday. Only informing close friends and family of her plans the previous evening, Kim's retirement was met with disbelief by many - including starter Alastair Scott who implored her to reconsider. 

“They really tried to talk me out of it,” said Kim.

After composing herself after the round, a reflective Kim sought out R&A chief Martin Slumbers to share the news. The pair have built a strong bond since partnering in a pro-am following Kim's breakthrough major victory here in 2018.

In-Kyung Kim of South Korea plays her second shot on the 18th hole during Day One of the AIG Women's Open at Muirfield on August 4, 2022 in Gullane, Scotland. (Photo by Octavio Passos/Getty Images)

Martin has done so much for the game, especially women's golf. Kim grateful for their friendship over the years. Playing Muirfield was a highlight and finally fulfilling her goal of competing on that historic layout.

Read more: 2024 AIG Women's Open Prize Money Breakdown

“When I did, I felt so satisfied,” she said of the 2022 championship, “and at the same time, I wasn’t sure what I want to do with my life.”

While satisfied with seeing her career come full circle in golf's home, uncertainty around future plans was evident. However, her indelible class and impact on global golf as one of Asia's pioneering stars is assured.

Always gracious in the spotlight, Kim's emotional farewell was a poignant end for one of the LPGA's most respected figures. Though the playing days close, her influence will live on wherever the fairways wind.

After an emotionally draining final round, IK Kim bravely opened up to the media following persuasion from tour officials.

The softly-spoken Korean has always preferred to let her clubs do the talking, but knew sharing her story one last time could inspire many.

For years, Kim's career was defined by her agonizing 14-inch miss at the 2012 Kraft Nabisco Championship major. Its aftermath saw her recruit the help of mental coaches to build resilience against inevitable doubts.

Kim reflected dealing with that putt wasn't easy - fans and strangers would cry to her about it. But over time she learned to be more understanding of herself.

It's a lesson hard-earned after 18 seasons interacting with the sport's unrelenting pressures. But typical of her quiet fortitude, Kim overcame the initial language barriers upon convincing her father to pursue her American dream as a fearless teenager.

That brave start foretold a stellar career highlighted by seven wins globally. While the playing days close, Kim's story of mental strength and resilience against the odds will continue to uplift future generations in the game.

Her hometown of Seoul may now get her back full-time. But IK Kim's indelible impact is assured wherever golf is grateful for the foundations laid by pioneering stars.

I.K. Kim won the 2017 Women's Open (Image: Getty Images)

IK Kim wasted no time making her mark upon arriving Stateside, winning the 2005 U.S. Girls' Junior Championship with a clinical display against future star Inbee Park.

She adapted impressively to life in America aided by welcoming host parents. Pop culture staples like 50 Cent and reality TV also played their part in hastening her grasp of the language.

This allowed Kim's immense talent to shine through as she claimed her first LPGA title just three years later in 2008. But her impact stretched well beyond results.

In one remarkably selfless act showing her character, Kim donated her entire $220,000 winner's check from 2010 to philanthropic causes. Half supported Lorena Ochoa's education foundation with the other amount aiding American charity.

Continuing as a Special Olympics ambassador, Kim plowed $100,000 more into growing golf within the Games. It was just the latest example of how she enriched lives far beyond the ropes.

While her clubs did the talking on the course, Kim left an equally profound legacy through compassion and giving back. She lit the path for Asian talent and reminds us that success is defined as much by who you are as what you achieve.

While the playing days are over, IK Kim's influence on the game is far from finished.

As a woman of wide-ranging passions, the charitable 36-year-old is confident of fresh opportunities awaiting discovery. But her proudest moments remain the grit and dedication given to perfecting her craft.

"I’m most proud of the hard work that I’ve put into,” said Kim, holding back tears. “I wasn’t the most talented or the most gifted, but I loved the game. I was willing to travel anywhere to play golf and learn the game, and I wanted to thank all the girls here. I’ve learned so much from them.”

Rewards came in the shape of seven global titles, though as many downs as ups. Characteristically, Kim focussed on the relationships enabling her breakthrough career.

Sharing an emotional moment with friend and former No.1 Yani Tseng was particularly poignant. "Saying thank you doesn't do justice to how much everyone in the game means to me," said a clearly touched Kim.

Her 18-year impact inspired Korean golf's next generation on Tour. While the next chapter awaits, IK Kim leaves an indelible legacy as one of the game's foremost trailblazers.

“I just want to say thank you to everyone,” Kim said. “My career has been a lot of up and down, but you guys made it all beautiful.”