Kurt Kitayama, the rising star of professional golf, captured headlines recently with his heartfelt engagement announcement, marking a significant milestone in his personal life. Kitayama, who emerged victorious at the 3M Open in July 2025, proposed to his long-time girlfriend, Eunice Chun, in November of the same year. Photos shared on social media revealed the couple in a moment of joy, cementing their commitment just before the new year.
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The proposal occurred against the backdrop of the renowned PLAYERS Championship, held in March 2026 in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. Following his triumph, Kitayama expressed his excitement at sharing the victory with his family, particularly highlighting the emotions experienced by his parents, Rumiko and Cliff Kitayama. In a post-match interview, he shared that after his win, he reached out to his father when his mother was too nervous to answer the phone, stating, “My dad tells me my mom couldn’t watch; I think she was out somewhere.”
Kitayama’s journey in golf began at a tender age of three, spurred on by his older brother, Daniel Kitayama. Raised in Chico, California, the brothers were nurtured by a supportive family environment that fostered their passion for the sport. Rumiko, who was born in Japan, and Cliff, of Japanese descent, ensured their sons grew up with access to golf at the Butte Creek Country Club, where they first honed their skills.
However, Kurt’s road to becoming a professional golfer was marred by his mother’s initial reservations. Rumiko once questioned whether pursuing golf as a career was practical, recognising it was not the conventional path. Yet, with time and her sons’ accomplishments, she began to shift her perspective. “I used to think that golf professional was not a real job,” she admitted. With Daniel’s transition into caddying and Kurt’s soaring success, her doubts were gradually alleviated.
Daniel’s path diverged from the competitive golfing circuit after his studies at the University of Hawaii-Hilo, leading him to take up caddying. He has frequently supported Kurt during tournaments, including the 2025 3M Open, demonstrating the close bond shared between the brothers. Kurt, reflecting on his relationship with Daniel, spoke of the admiration he holds for his brother and the camaraderie that their shared experiences in golf bring.
As Kurt’s career flourished, culminating in a staggering $20 million win at the Arnold Palmer Invitational in 2023, both his parents stood proudly by his side. Rumiko expressed pride in her sons, echoing sentiments of disbelief at Kurt’s achievements and his steadfast dedication to the sport. “We are so proud. It is unbelievable,” she remarked, reflecting the family’s joy in Kurt’s accomplishments on the grand stage of professional golf.
Kurt’s engagement to Eunice Chun signifies another joyful chapter in his life. The proposal, which he candidly documented on Instagram, showcased a humorous moment where Chun walked away just as he was about to pop the question. He later jokingly remarked, “Well I tried…… just kidding she said yes!” The announcement was celebrated by fans and followers alike, illustrating not only his athletic success but also his happiness off the green.
As Kitayama continues to ascend in the golfing world, his family’s support remains a foundational element of his journey. Both Daniel and their parents have been integral to his development, providing the encouragement and backing essential for any athlete striving for greatness. It is this familial bond, coupled with Kitayama’s determination and talent, that propels him forward in an increasingly competitive field.
Looking towards the future, football enthusiasts and fans of Kitayama are eager to see how he balances his burgeoning career with his personal life as he prepares for this next exciting chapter as a fiancé. With his family behind him and a clear path ahead, there is no telling how far Kurt Kitayama’s ambition and dedication will take him in the world of golf.