Max Homa explains the two reasons why he went so mad when he made the cut at The Open

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Typically, golf fans around the world focus on the top of the leaderboard, but Max Homa’s birdie on 18 emerged as one of the eye-catching moments on day two of The Open.

Homa, who has clocked the longest drive on the PGA Tour this year, has struggled since his impressive performance at The Masters in April.

The 33-year-old changed his driver ahead of the US Open but has still yet to return to the winners’ circle in 2024.

Heading to Royal Troon’s 18th on Friday, the American was in need of a birdie to ensure he made the cut. And, after he drained a 28ft putt, jubilant scenes ensued.

Now, speaking during his post-round press conference, Homa has shed light on just why he went so mad after making the cut.

Max Homa wears heart on his sleeve at The Open

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Homa initially laid bare his struggles during the 2024 season.

“Hopefully, it was to make the cut, but I don’t know. I’ve just been really not laying very well, and golf has not been very fun,” said Homa. “I’ve been doing a poor job mentally. I just felt like today, for one of the first times, maybe ever, I just never flinched, never blinked. I played 16 really good holes and just made two really bad swings.”

The American went on to explain his reaction on the 18th green. “I don’t know, maybe I’m just proud of myself,” Homa added. “This is my favourite tournament in the world. So, to have the chance to potentially play two more days, I don’t know, I had an out-of-body experience. I didn’t really expect to yell like I won a golf tournament. It just felt really good. I felt like I fought all day.”

Max Homa’s 2024 PGA Tour record

2024 hasn’t been a complete failure for Homa. The American sits 32nd in the FedEx Cup points standings and will more than likely making to the latter stages of the playoffs.

Thus far, his most impressive performance came at Augusta, where he finished on four under, seven shots back of eventual winner Scottie Scheffler.

However, since the PGA Championship, things have taken a turn for the six-time tour event winner.

Homa missed the cut at the US Open and finished well out of contention at the Travelers Championship and Scottish Open.

Hopefully, his Friday fightback at The Open can be the catalyst for an upturn in form as the 2024 season reaches its conclusion.