Ever since winning the 2022 PGA Championship, Justin Thomas seems to have lost his touch in major tournaments. The current season has not been kind to him, as he finds himself missing the cut for the third time in a major event, putting his Ryder Cup hopes in jeopardy. The concern surrounding his performance is not limited to fans and pundits alone, but also extends to Ryder Cup captain Zach Johnson.
As spectators at Royal Liverpool during The Open Championship this week, one might ponder how Thomas managed to secure two major titles in the past. His game appears to be in complete disarray, failing to recapture the brilliance that propelled him to the top. Johnson, expressing his concern, spoke about Thomas as a friend and roommate, acknowledging the golfer’s remarkable talent and work ethic. Johnson remains hopeful that Thomas will find his form again, emphasizing the transient nature of the sport.
Justin Thomas has been an integral part of the American Ryder Cup team since his debut in 2018. During his first appearance in France, where the European team attained victory, Thomas stood out as the lone shining star, securing four wins for Team USA. At the 2021 Ryder Cup at Whistling Straits, Thomas contributed 2.5 points, playing a crucial role in recapturing the cup.
While Thomas’ recent struggles raise concerns, Johnson remains unworried due to his unwavering belief in his friend’s abilities. Rory McIlroy, a prominent figure in Team Europe, also voiced his confidence in Thomas’ talent, assuring that the golfer has the right people around him to guide him through this challenging period.
However, Thomas not only faces Ryder Cup uncertainty but also finds himself outside the Top 70 in the FedEx Cup standings. To qualify for the FedEx Cup playoffs that commence on August 11, he must improve his position before the cutoff. Determined to prove himself and earn a spot on the Ryder Cup team, Thomas acknowledged his intense desire but also admitted the possibility of trying too hard.
Next week’s 3M Open in Minnesota presents an opportunity for Thomas to turn his fortunes around. Past experiences have shown that he has the ability to bounce back quickly, as evidenced by his ninth-place finish at the Travelers Championship following a disappointing 11-over 81 at the U.S. Open last month.
Nevertheless, if Thomas continues to struggle, his chances of making the Ryder Cup team for the first time since 2015 may be in jeopardy. He must find his rhythm and regain his confidence to secure his place among the top players fighting for the prestigious cup.
As Justin Thomas navigates this challenging phase in his career, golf enthusiasts around the world eagerly anticipate his resurgence. With the right support system and his unwavering work ethic, Thomas has the potential to reclaim his winning ways and reaffirm his position as one of the sport’s finest competitors.
The post “Justin Thomas’s Struggle to Maintain Momentum” first appeared on the European News Global.
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