“Winning is hard, it’s really, really hard,” this is what Justin Thomas said after he clinched his 16th PGA Tour victory. But the golfer’s struggle is what has made this victory a memorable one. Earlier at the Masters, Rory McIlroy ended his major victory drought after 10 years and completed his career Grand Slam. Similarly, Thomas, who was a consistent winner on the tour, observed a long halt after his PGA Championship win in 2022.
Thomas came close to the win with his top 5 and top 10 finishes, but couldn’t seal the victory. Even in the 2025 season, he was runner-up twice and had two top-10 finishes. Now, after 2 years and 10 months, the golfer with his new team has turned the tables. With new caddie Joe Griener and his daughter, Molly, entering the course for the first time, it has turned out to be a lucky charm for him.
Despite having just 58.9% driving accuracy, the golfer has shown great persistence throughout the tournament. In the first round, he carded 11 birdies and just one bogey to score 61. Similarly, in the later rounds, he recorded rounds of 69-69-68 to push the match into the playoff. Even on the final 18th hole, playing against Andrew Novak, who made a par finish, Thomas snatched the victory with a birdie.
The win not just ended the drought but has also removed the baggage from his back, as we saw during his emotional interview with Amanda Balionis. During the interview, JT said, “Winning is hard, it’s really, really hard, but I worked my b–t off, stayed patient, stayed positive, got a great wife, great team.” The consistent effort from the golfer with each performance and working on improving his game is what resulted in a victory that he aimed for.
Moreover, the entire golf community is celebrating, along with prominent names congratulating the golfer for his achievement.
Professionals praising Justin Thomas for his win at the RBC Heritage
The emotion-filled victory celebration, which began at the course after the final putt, continued even off the course, where professional golfers, commentators, and reporters were seen celebrating along with JT and congratulating him for his achievement.
Jena Sims posted a story of a family picture with JT, wearing the plaid jacket with the trophy. The caption wrote, “Pumped for y’all!! @jillian_thomas3.” Brooks Koepka and Justin Thomas share a great bond. Earlier, JT’s post about their daughter had a special heartfelt note from Koepka. Now with his victory, Koepka’s wife Jena Sims has joined the celebration.
Further joining the celebration, Michelle Wie West also joined. She posted a story writing, “Love this sooo much @justinthomas34 @jillian_thomas3 Congrats you guys!!!!!.” Ex-LPGA Tour professional has a strong bond with Thomas, and for his achievement, she congratulated him with a heartfelt message. Thomas earlier helped West with her married life.
Syndication: The Courier-Journal Justin Thomas waves to fans as he finishes the day on the 18th hole -10 during the third round of the PGA, Golf Herren Championship at Valhalla Golf Club on Saturday, May 18, 2024. Louisville , EDITORIAL USE ONLY PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xClarexGrant/CourierxJournalx USATSI_23316084
Amanda Balionis, who witnessed the emotion-filled attempt of JT at the course, also congratulated him with a dedicated post. She posted a photo carousel with the caption, “It’s been nearly three years, but @justinthomas34 is again a champion! With his wife, Jillian, and his daughter, Molly Grace, there to celebrate, this one was full of emotion and gratitude. Win number 16 may have taken some time, but it was very clearly worth the wait.” Balionis is among the top reporters for CBS who have witnessed the journey of golfers closely from inside the ropes. Have even witnessed the emotional encounter with JT.
More applause came in for the golfer as Jim Nantz, for his final putt from the broadcast box. He said, “Is it the winning putt? Here it comes! YES IT IS! JUSTIN THOMAS! BACK IN THE WINNER’S CIRCLE!” Along with that, Titliest also posted a special story writing, “Started the week with the course record. Ended it with a clutch playoff win.” JT carded 11 birdies to score 61 in the first round and set the record low. Even his final shot in the playoff was a birdie, resulting in a win.
With the entire golf community celebrating Justin Thomas’s win, send in your best wishes to the golfer in the comments section below.
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