Lydia Ko pays an emotional tribute to the coach who passed away.

Since 2022, Lydia Ko has been working tirelessly to regain the form that took her to the top of the world of golf. Focused on her physical preparation and training structure, the three-time major champion has seen the Perform For Golf gym as a crucial ally in this journey of sports rebirth. However, tragedy struck this path when, about a week ago, her coach and training partner Kristoper Gallimore unexpectedly passed away, shocking the entire gym community and the LPGA star herself.

To her fans and followers, Lydia Ko turned to social media to pay an emotional tribute to her friend and mentor. In a heartfelt post on Instagram, the athlete shared images of training moments alongside Gallimore, revealing a more intimate side of their relationship: “When the LPGA was on television in the gym, Kris would tell the other clients to cheer for me. Losing someone we love is one of the hardest things. Thank you, Kris. We will miss your dedication, your kindness, and your love… we will miss everything about you. You were a ray of sunshine to those around you. Rest in peace.”

Unlike her swing coaches and caddies, Gallimore’s connection with Ko transcended the golf course. The coach was not just a professional figure but a fundamental pillar in the golfer’s daily life, helping her manage the intense pressure of competitions and maintain emotional balance away from the spotlight. This close and trusting relationship proved vital for the star, who found in Gallimore a true confidant and support.

In the more relaxed moments, away from the demands of training, Gallimore and Angus Lee – another high-performance coach of Ko – were constant presences. The golfer herself had shared a moment like this, in a photo captured in full “Beast mode,” showcasing the human and everyday side of this training team that drives Lydia.

Kristoper Gallimore stood out not only for his technical competence but also for his charismatic and empathetic personality. Known for his ability to make everyone feel valued, he was a source of joy and motivation for the gym members, who now deeply mourn his loss. The cause of death remains unknown at this time, leaving a void and an aura of mystery surrounding this tragic episode.

A kinesiology graduate from Ohio Wesleyan University and certified by the NSCA as a strength and conditioning specialist, Gallimore had a revolutionary view of physical exercise. He argued that training was not just a way to improve the body, but an essential escape from the stresses of daily life. “For me, exercise is the ultimate release! It helps me organize my day, forget my worries, and be healthier. I want to provide that same release to my clients, making them durable and injury-free,” the coach confessed, who also had a history linked to martial arts and football from a young age.

Kristoper Gallimore was not just a coach: he was a visionary who transformed lives, including that of Lydia Ko. His legacy lives on in the golf community and in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. Now, in the face of this irreparable loss, the sports world comes together in mourning, celebrating the memory of a man whose light shone brightly, albeit for a short time.

Lydia Ko’s message is a call to celebrate life and to recognize the human impact that Gallimore had, reminding us that behind every elite athlete, there are people who make a difference beyond victories and titles. Kristoper Gallimore, a true “ray of sunshine,” will be dearly missed. Rest in peace.

This article first appeared on Apito Final.