If you were wondering what the difference is between average and professional golfers, look no further than Justin Thomas’ pre-tournament press conference ahead of The Northern Trust, the first leg of the FedEx Cup Playoffs.
Speaking with the media, Thomas aired a couple of self-held grievances that he’s had in his short, yet illustrious career that go a long way in explaining the type of fire and competitive drive needed to be coupled with intense talent to succeed on golf’s highest level.
“I’m still pretty mad that I didn’t win (the Tour Championship),” Thomas said of his runner-up finish in 2017 at East Lake. “Yeah, I would take a second place in that tournament every year if it meant I won the FedExCup every year. But I’d like a first place and the FedExCup more.”
Following up on Thomas’ sentiment as well as another admission that losing out the PGA Tour Rookie of the Year award to Daniel Berger in 2015, the Associated Press’ Doug Ferguson asked Thomas how far back in his memory he goes to loses that truly annoy him.
Thomas’ answer didn’t disappoint.
“I totally choked the U.S. Kids when I was eight years old,” he said. “I shot 32, I shot 37 on the second round. I’m dead serious. I lost in a playoff. I got up-and-down on the first playoff hole then I lost on the second playoff hole, made bogey.”
Disappointments from 17 years ago are the go-to memory and for the 25-year-old, 9-time PGA Tour winner. That’s pretty incredible.
