Kipp Popert, the world’s top-ranked disabled golfer, is on a mission to achieve greatness in able-bodied tournaments while inspiring the next generation of athletes. Recently, Popert made history as the first disabled golfer to compete in the Asian Tour’s International Series at the 2024 Hong Kong Open.
During the tournament, Popert shared a meaningful moment with 12-year-old local junior champion Andreas Ma, who was born with a congenital absence of his left hand. Popert promised the aspiring golfer, “I’ll make sure there’s prize money for you,” after giving him a masterclass in chipping and driving.
Bridging the Gap Between Disabled and Able-Bodied Golf
For the 26-year-old Briton, competing alongside able-bodied professionals such as Justin Rose and Tom Kim is just another step toward his larger goal: creating a sustainable path for disabled golfers.
“I never had a role model in disabled golf growing up or a clear pathway to turn pro,” said Popert. “But I’ve always believed in my abilities. My mission is to show disabled children, like Andreas, that there’s a future in golf for them—a future with opportunities and trophies to aim for.”
Overcoming Challenges
Popert’s journey hasn’t been easy. Diagnosed with spastic diplegia, a form of cerebral palsy affecting the lower body, he underwent 11 surgeries and endured years of intensive physiotherapy during his youth. His parents, both doctors, supported his love for golf, with his father introducing him to the sport and encouraging him to hone his skills at a local club.
Despite the challenges, Popert’s determination never wavered. “People told me pursuing golf was a dumb choice,” he said. “The more they doubted me, the harder I worked to prove them wrong.”
Today, Popert dominates disability golf, holding multiple titles, including back-to-back US Adaptive Open championships. However, his ambition extends beyond personal success.
Paving the Way for Future Generations
Popert remains technically an amateur due to the lack of financial incentives in disability golf. Many tournaments for disabled players offer no prize money, limiting the professional opportunities available.
“The sport needs to evolve,” Popert explained. “We need to incentivize disabled golfers to go full-time, just like in men’s and women’s able-bodied golf. This would create more role models and opportunities at every level—from grassroots to professional.”
Popert draws inspiration from players like Brendan Lawlor, the first disabled golfer to turn professional, and hopes to continue breaking barriers. “I want to lift big trophies in able-bodied golf,” he said. “When that happens, it’ll send a message to the world that disabled golfers belong here.”
A Legacy of Resilience
Popert’s resilience is rooted in his family and a deep sense of purpose. He honors his late cousin, Archie Bruce, a promising rugby player who passed away at 20, by wearing a cap embroidered with Bruce’s name and jersey number.
“Archie and I always motivated each other to push through challenges,” Popert said. “His memory inspires me to keep pressing on, even on the toughest days.”
Inspiring the Next Generation
For young golfers like Andreas Ma, Popert has already become a beacon of hope. “When I’m older, I want to be like Kipp,” Ma said. “I want to be world No. 1.”
Popert’s journey is far from over, but his impact is already evident. “If my success in golf can open doors and change lives for others, it’s the greatest privilege I could ask for,” he said.
Source: CNN Sport
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