With one of golf’s most iconic team events on the horizon, the future of European golf is already making waves. In an exclusive roundtable hosted by TaylorMade Senior Tour Representative Mark Thistleton and Amateur Programme Representative Mitchell Waite, we caught up with Lev Grinberg and Kris Kim—two standout juniors selected to represent Team Europe.
From unforgettable memories to fresh gear and fierce ambitions, here’s what went down.
• Age: 17
• Country: Ukraine
• Handicap: +6.4
• Age: 17
• Country: England
• Handicap: +5.8
“Two pretty impressive handicaps for your ages, boys.”– Mark Thistleton
Both Lev and Kris are returning for their second appearance, having competed in Italy in 2023. That experience left a lasting impression. Lev recalls, “Standing on the 18th green with the trophy and 20,000 Europeans shouting ‘Vamos’—unreal.” Kris echoed the sentiment, “Just being there, playing the course, meeting the team—it was crazy.”.
“It’s been a year-long process. These boys planned their schedules around key events to earn their spots.”- Mitchell Waite
Their qualification this season is the result of consistent performance, strategic planning, and a shared drive to reach the top. For both players, this international team event is more than just a tournament. It’s proving ground for future greatness.
Lev and Kris aren’t shy about their ambitions. Both view international team golf as a defining milestone in their careers.
“It’s a dream. I want to make as many teams as possible,” Lev shared. “Team golf every two years—it’s special. Definitely a career goal." added Kris.
For Lev, the opportunity to represent his country on such a stage carries even deeper meaning—he would be the first Ukrainian to rise from the junior ranks onto the main stage, a historic achievement he’s proud to pursue.
With Team USA’s roster announced, including fellow Team TaylorMade athlete Miles Russell, the competitive fire is already burning. Kris, who defeated Miles in singles two years ago, is open to a rematch. “I beat him in singles two years ago. A rematch would be fun.” he said with a grin.
Whilst Lev believes Europe’s team chemistry gives them a unique edge.
“The team bond we have this year is nothing like the Americans. That’s already a big advantage.”
This year’s venue, Bethpage Black, is widely regarded as one of the toughest layouts in American golf. Nestled in the rolling terrain of Long Island, New York, the course stretches over 7,400 yards from the championship tees and features narrow fairways, elevated greens, and punishing rough—all designed to challenge even the most skilled players.
A sign near the first tee famously warns:
“The Black Course is an extremely difficult course which we recommend only for highly skilled golfers.”
Lev and Kris are embracing the challenge with confidence and focus.
“It’s going to be long, hard—a real test. We’ll use the energy from the fans and embrace the moment,” said Lev. Kris is staying sharp with a few competitive events before heading out, ready to adapt to the demanding layout and thrive under pressure.
TaylorMade’s tour team has equipped both players with custom-stamped MG5 wedges, tailored to their preferences and playing styles.
“Lev’s switching from Hi-Toe 4 to the MG5 SC grind. Kris locked into MG5's during British Boys Week—where he won stroke play and secured his spot,” said Mitch Waite.
These wedges aren’t just tools—they’re symbols of performance, pride, and the pursuit of excellence.
When asked which player from the current European team they’d love to partner with, Kris didn’t hesitate. “Rory. Watching him at the Irish Open—you can see how clutch he is. Definitely Rory,” he said. Lev leaned toward another standout name—known for his powerful swing, fiery Spanish competitiveness, and unwavering commitment to team golf. “I love how he swings it. I love his attitude. That would be my dream,” Lev shared.
Both choices reflect the players’ admiration for elite-level performance and their desire to one day compete alongside the very best.
Faced with a hypothetical choice—sink a 10-foot putt to win for Team Europe or The British Open—both players leaned toward the Team Europe.
“Imagine making a 10-foot putt in front of Scottie Scheffler and 100,000 European fans. That would be pretty cool,” said Lev. Kris agreed, noting that if you’ve got the call up for Team Europe, you’ve probably had chances at The British Open too.
At TaylorMade, we’re proud to support Lev and Kris on their journey. Their talent, mindset, and dedication embody everything we stand for: performance, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of greatness.
As they head to Bethpage, one thing is clear—Team Europe’s future is in good hands.
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