Justin Thomas won his first match in the opening of the WGC-Dell’s pool play, edging Luke List on Austin Country Club’s 18th hole.
A storyline flying somewhat under the radar this week is that the 24-year old Thomas could actually become the No. 1 player in the world with a win in Austin.
Along with capturing his third victory of the season, valued at 74 points, Thomas would also need for World No. 1 Dustin Johnson to finish out of the final match. A runner-up position by DJ would give him 44.4 points, and a slight edge to remain at the top. A third place finish is worth only 29.6.
CURRENTLY
Dustin Johnson: 10.3126 (464.07/45)
Justin Thomas: 9.3722 (477.98/51)
THOMAS WINS/DJ 2ND
Dustin Johnson: 10.9633 (493.35/45)
Justin Thomas: 10.8231 (551.98/51)
THOMAS WINS/DJ 3RD
Justin Thomas: 10.8231 (551.98/51)
Dustin Johnson: 10.6411 (478.85/45)
After winning the Honda Classic a few weeks ago, Thomas confirmed becoming No. 1 was a goal of his, as it is of most top players.
“I think it’s pretty well known that any top golfer, any golfer wants to be No. 1 in the world. I think that would be kind of ludicrous to not be a goal, Top-10, Top-20 in the world player,” said Thomas.
“But I just need to keep my head down and keep the gas pedal down and continue to work hard and continue to do the things that I’m doing in my off-weeks to give myself chances to win.”
Thomas plays against Patton Kizzire in the second round of pool play today. Thomas and Kizzire are ranked No. 1 and No. 2 in the FedExCup standings, respectively.
