What a season it's been so far for Justin Thomas. 3rd win of the season, his second WGC title and a triumphant return to the world number 1 spot.
Photo from Golf Monthly UK
JT's built up quite a resume ever since he earned his PGA Tour Card for the 2015 season (multiple wins, a major win, Fed Ex cup win, world no.1) and he's only 27 years young!
I was a volunteer during the CIMB Classic in 2015 and I have to admit, I didn't know much about JT prior. He quickly became the topic of the week though, after carding a sublime course record 61 in the second round. This young man was talented but it wasn't until the final round that the golfing world would witness his grit and maturity after disaster struck on the 14th hole.
That Sunday, I was in charge of holes 2 and 13. The 14th tee is a couple of steps away from the 2nd tee, so I was able to watch some of the action when JT's group arrived. Measuring 358 yards, the 14th is a shortish par-4 (even drive-able when the officials push up the tee box).
View from the 14th green
Unfortunately JT found the water with his second shot. A double bogey and he was suddenly 2 shots behind the lead. Adam Scott was playing so well in the group ahead and it was looking like a lost cause.
I didn't get to watch the final stretch, but what happened next was nothing short of incredible and nail biting. 2 behind, JT fired back with 3 consecutive birdies to take back the lead and would par the 18th to win by 1 stroke for his first PGA tour victory. Re-live the action here.
Caught up with JT after his victory. Been a fan ever since.
JT would successfully defend in 2016, sparking off a remarkable season. How's this? that season, JT won 5 times. 4 PGA titles (carding a 59 at the Sony Open), the PGA Championship and became the Fed-Ex cup champion. How's that for super impressive.
Apart from his prodigious talent on the course, I appreciate the way he carries himself. He's great with the fans (always obliged my requests for an autograph and photo over the years) and his regular interactions with his younger audience and charity works are certainly praise worthy.
JT smashing down a drive in 2017
Would catch JT in action again in the next two editions of the CIMB Classic but sadly, the curtain came down in 2018 and the tournament was replaced with the ZOZO Championship in Japan. I am not privy to the organizing of the tournament, but it's a shame Malaysia isn't hosting a full fledged PGA tour event anymore. But that's a topic for another day.
It's great seeing JT back at the number 1 spot and he's a firm favorite this week at the PGA Championship. Let's go JT!!
