Should Justin Thomas Book His Ryder Cup Plane Ticket?
Golf Channel’s Eamon Lynch recently sparked a heated discussion when he suggested that Justin Thomas should secure his plane ticket to Rome for the upcoming Ryder Cup. As talks about the prestigious event intensify, questions arise about Thomas’ eligibility despite his absence from the FedEx Cup Playoffs. Is representing his country still on the table?
Although Thomas did not make the playoffs, it does not undermine his potential impact as part of Team USA. Having represented his country in both 2018 and 2021, Thomas has demonstrated his prowess as one of America’s most formidable assets. However, it is no secret that he has faced challenges throughout the 2023 season. With missed cuts in three out of four major championships and no victories to his name, his form has been under scrutiny.
At the Wyndham Championship last week, Thomas fought valiantly but missed out on the playoffs by a single spot. A birdie on the 18th hole at Sedgefield Country Club would have secured his spot, but he could only manage a par, leaving him eight points short. Nonetheless, the determination he displayed was evident, and he made it clear that the Ryder Cup holds greater significance for him.
In Thomas’ impressive Ryder Cup record, which stands at 6-2-1, lies the allure of his selection. His prowess in match play is undeniable, and that is exactly the attribute Team USA requires in their quest to break a 30-year dry spell on European soil, as pointed out by Lynch. However, considering all the adversity that Thomas has faced this season, it is a bold statement to suggest that he should outright book his ticket to Italy.
Team USA Captain Zach Johnson finds himself in a delicate position. He needs players who can perform under pressure in Italy if they are to defeat the formidable European team. Thomas has proven his mettle in the past, but it remains to be seen if Johnson is willing to take a gamble on the 30-year-old, given the challenges he has undergone this year.
Johnson has until the conclusion of the Tour Championship on August 27th to make his captain’s picks. The Ryder Cup, scheduled from September 29th to October 1st, will take place at the Marco Simone Golf Club in Rome, Italy. This timeline leaves a month for careful contemplation.
Considering the circumstances, the question looms: does Justin Thomas deserve a spot on the Ryder Cup team? The decision lies with Johnson, who must weigh the various factors at play. Ultimately, the task at hand is to assemble a team that can conquer the Europeans and bring the prestigious cup back to American soil.
The post “Should Justin Thomas Book His Ryder Cup Plane Ticket?” was published with full copyrights permissions obtained from the Sports Today magazine.