Despite not making Jim Furyk’s 12-man Presidents Cup team, Justin Thomas’ influence is still being felt.
Thomas was disappointed to miss out after not being picked by Furyk. Instead, the American captain selected Keegan Bradley and Max Homa.
Homa’s inclusion has been criticised after the six-time PGA Tour winner endured a difficult end to the 2024 season.
Homa, however, has revealed that Thomas has been in close contact with him in the lead-up to the event as the USA eye a tenth successive victory.
Max Homa shares Justin Thomas conversations ahead of Presidents Cup
Speaking before Thursday’s first matches, Homa detailed conversations he’s had with Thomas despite the two-time major winner’s current absence from Montreal.
“He’s been a humongous part of this year, the last couple years for me and especially this last maybe three months, just very helpful and just like a very kind human and a great friend because I’m sure I know he’s not happy he’s not here, but you wouldn’t have noticed it the way he has been talking to me and doing all that,” Homa admitted.
“Everybody on all of the teams I’ve been on has been like a great person to go look at and lean on and be a leader. I’ve just been closest with just from growing up, Justin.”
The American continued: “It’s weirder for me not having him, but I was talking to him most of yesterday afternoon night. They might not be here physically, but they are in people’s ease.
“If you look at any of these guys, they are great to chat with and great to pick their brain. I wouldn’t even be able to pick one. Xander does an amazing job of getting everybody involved, being funny, and making it light. I think you could pick anybody, and you would pick a good person to lean on.”
Pressure on Max Homa to deliver at the 2024 Presidents Cup
After a torrid end to the 2024 PGA Tour season, all eyes will be on Homa when Furyk calls upon him.
The American and Brian Harman were left out of Thursday’s fourballs, and Homa will need to replicate his impressive match-play form when he eventually takes to Royal Montreal’s first tee.
Homa was one of the few American players who left the 2023 Ryder Cup with his head held high after claiming three points.
Furthermore, at the 2022 Presidents Cup, Homa ended the event with a perfect 4-0-0 record. A similar performance this week will make Furyk’s decision 100 percent justified.
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