In the high-stakes world of professional golf, where precision and consistency are paramount, one name stands out like a beacon of excellence: Justin Thomas. His remarkable journey through the PGA Tour has left an impressive mark on the sport, with his ball-striking abilities setting a new standard of perfection.
Let’s delve into the awe-inspiring career of Justin Thomas, exploring how his mastery of the game has not only propelled him to the pinnacle of success but has also redefined the very essence of exceptional golfing prowess.
The rise of a golfing great
Justin Thomas, a name synonymous with golfing brilliance, emerged onto the PGA Tour with an aura of promise that has since materialised into an astonishing career. Born in Louisville, Kentucky, in 1993, Thomas displayed an early affinity for the sport, honing his skills under the guidance of a golfing family.
His journey into professional golf was marked by unwavering dedication and remarkable talent. This combination led him to attend the University of Alabama on a golf scholarship. From those collegiate roots, Thomas made a seamless transition into the professional circuit, capturing the attention of the golfing world with his remarkable ball-striking abilities and a determination that would propel him to the highest echelons of the sport.
The PGA Tour 2023
The PGA Tour is a series of elite golf tournaments held throughout the year, offering players the chance to compete at the highest level of professional golf. After the recent Fortinet Championship, which took place from the 14th to the 17th of September at the scenic Silverado Resort and Spa, Justin Thomas came in 5th place. According to Paul Hodowanic, writing for the PGA Tour, with Thomas’ top-five finish at the Fortinet Championship, Thomas can be optimistic about the upcoming Ryder Cup.
However, with his struggles this season, many are wondering if Thomas will be ready enough by the time the Ryder Cup takes place. Although he came in an impressive 4th position in the WM Phoenix Open, he has had a few less favourable results in other events. His lowest ranking of the season so far was in the PGA Championship where he came 65th. His last two championships have been promising though.
Justin Thomas’ great achievements & masterful technique
Justin Thomas is a name that resonates deeply within the golfing community. From making a splash during spring break in 2017, he has consistently ranked among the world’s top golfers. His exemplary skills are evident in his major achievements, notably winning the PGA Championship twice, in 2017 and 2022.
These significant victories underscore his formidable presence on the PGA Tour, reflecting his ability to consistently rank highly. Currently standing at 24th in the official world golf rankings, Thomas’ accomplishments are a testament to his unwavering prowess and dedication to the sport.
Renowned for his prodigious power despite a comparatively slight build, Justin Thomas’s swing is a study in efficiency and force. Central to his technique is an impeccable wrist hinge at the peak of his backswing, granting him additional leverage. When he transitions into the downswing, rapid hip rotation and adept use of ground forces amplify his power, producing shots with a high launch angle and minimal spin – an optimal combo for distance.
Thomas’ ability to make the ball do just about anything he wants it to do is an impressive skill which has earned him the reputation of being one of golf’s best ball strikers. The top player even uses simple ball-striking drills which helps him improve his game. Beyond the mechanics, Thomas’s mental fortitude shines, with an uncanny ability to maintain concentration, particularly in high-pressure situations, further solidifying his standing among golf’s elite.
Upcoming golfing events in the calendar
October promises to be a bustling month for the PGA Tour, with several marquee events on the horizon. From the 5th to the 8th, the Sanderson Farms Championship tournament at the Country Club of Jackson is set, featuring a purse — the total prize money to be shared amongst the participants — of $8,200,000. This will swiftly be followed by the Shriners Children’s Open event at TPC Summerlin from the 12th to the 15th, with a purse of $8,400,000.
Outside of the official PGA events, Justin Thomas is also set to take part in this year’s Ryder Cup as part of Team USA. He’ll be playing alongside other golfing greats like Max Homa, Patrick Cantlay, and current world number one Scottie Scheffler.
While the world number one currently holds odds of 4/1 with the Bet MGM UK sportsbook for becoming the winning top USA points scorer, Thomas currently has odds of 12/1. But with his recent top-five finish at the Fortinet Championship, Thomas will be focused on his game during the Ryder Cup. Team USA is also currently favoured to win and lift the trophy at this year’s Ryder Cup with the 4/6 latest odds compared to Team Europe’s 23/20.