Two-time major winner Justin Thomas has just done something for the first time since 2016 as his turbulent Open Championship continues.
The American flew out of the blocks on Thursday, carding a three-under 68 to place himself firmly in contention. After his round, Thomas admitted he was “excited” with where his game was at.
However, a seven-over-par 78 on Friday saw the 31-year-old plummet down the leaderboard, with his front nine 45 proving costly.
Now, Thomas’ Open has taken another turn after a magnificent start to his third round at Royal Troon.
Justin Thomas matches 2016 record at The Open
The two-time PGA Championship winner made five birdies on his front nine on Saturday, and according to golf stats guru Justin Ray, the American has matched his personal best nine-hole score at The Open.
Thomas’ 31 was a 14-shot improvement from his 45 on Friday and tied his nine-hole score from when he debuted at The Open back in 2016, which was also held at Troon.
Justin Thomas’ new Scotty Cameron putter appears to be working
After struggling with his putting throughout the season, Thomas opted to use a Scotty Cameron prototype at last week’s Scottish Open.
The new flat stick appears to be working with the American and is now firmly in contention at the final major of the year.
Upon the conclusion of his third round, the 31-year-old will be desperate for conditions to worsen as the day goes on.
The early starters have certainly benefitted as a result, with Royal Troon now far more gettable compared to the first two days.
Sungjae Im’s caddie claimed it was a “legitimately a different sport from yesterday.”
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