Justin Thomas returns to action for the first time in 2025. After a bit of a setback in 2024, Thomas is looking to start the new PGA Tour season off on the right foot. He can do just that by having a rather unique training session ahead of the Watchmen this weekend.
Thomas hosted a mini golf clinic while practicing in Maui before today's tee time for the first round. Several young golfers came to watch and learn from the PGA star during practice.
The kids took turns asking him questions like if he swings like Happy Gilmore or if he ever Eurosteps to celebrate a made kick. While he was training, he invited some kids to compete against him.
Then he said:
“I really feel like I've been in their shoes not too long ago, but forever ago, so if a few of these guys can become the future of golf and play on the LPGA or PGA, then that's pretty cool down the road one day.”
The Sentry tournament post referred to them as “local keiki”. Keiki is a term for a baby orchid plant that grows asexually from a mature orchid flower stem or pseudobulb. Used colloquially to refer to children in Hawaii.
At the time of writing, Thomas had yet to play the Guard, while several other golfers, e.g Tom Hoge and Harry Hall birdied the first few holes to open the 2025 season.
Justin Thomas is excited for 2025 after the Presidents Cup race
Justin Thomas has been a longtime standout for Team USA on both teams The Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup, was not part of the 2024 Presidents Cup team. The snub has him excited to play with a bit of a chip on his shoulder this year.
in conversation with Athleticsaid:
“I haven't had a chance to play nervous in a while, so I'm excited to play a little nervous this year.”
He understood the decision and even took it well enough to joke with captain Jim Furyk about it. He texted Furyk several times to joke with him about his team decisions.
Justin Thomas has also frequently posted about it, adding that he feels it has something to do with Furyk.
“I'm glad they won and they're drawing them like crazy, but luckily we're close enough to where I feel like I can do it and he won't be too upset,” he said.
The US and International teams alternated undefeated days before the United States put together a fine closing run to secure the win.
Edited by Riddhiman Sarkar