Justin Thomas has left last year’s bad memories behind and started strong at the Open Championship.
He shot a three-under 68 in the first round, taking an early lead.
Thomas had seven birdies, two bogeys, and one double bogey on a wet day at Royal Troon.
Last year was rough for him. He began with an 11-over 82 at Royal Liverpool, one of his worst rounds ever. When asked about his improvement, he joked about being 15 strokes better this time. “I couldn’t even tell you what I was thinking or how it was then,” he said. “I’m just worried about how I am now.”
He feels he’s doing everything better compared to last year, which he called his “least successful season on the PGA Tour.” With those tough times behind him, Thomas is happy with his start in this final Major of the year.
Strong Start and Mixed Season
“I played really solid,” Thomas said. “I hit a lot of fairways, which is key in any Major but especially in an Open.” Despite a small hiccup on the back nine, he stayed patient and kept going.
This season has been up and down for him. He’s had five top-10 finishes but also missed cuts at big events like the Masters and US Open. Fans might think it’s been a rollercoaster ride for him! Still chasing his first win since the 2022 PGA Championship, he’s struggled to put together four consistent rounds.
Last week’s Scottish Open saw him start strong with a 62 but finish tied for 62nd after shooting over par in later rounds. He felt he got “literally nothing out of my rounds” despite hitting good shots.
Thomas remains confident that things are turning around: “I feel like everything has been turning the right way,” he said. “Just play for my game, and it’ll take care of itself.”
What do you think? Will Justin finally get that win?
