How often do we think about how friendships have a significant impact on the competitive realm of professional golf? Beyond individual victories and losses, athletes’ friendships frequently act as a pillar for perseverance and achievement. Significant connections, like the one between Tiger Woods and Mark O’Meara, who mentored Woods while they were both members of the Isleworth Golf and Country Club, have demonstrated how support from one another may improve performance.
Similar to this, Max Homa and Justin Thomas have a strong bond and support one another through difficult times both on and off the course. Known for his candor and wit, Homa has openly recognized the important contribution fellow golfer Justin Thomas has made to his career, particularly during tumultuous times on the PGA Tour. So let’s dive in and discover.
Homa appreciates Justin Thomas for guidance in tough times
The most recent episode of The Craziest Scramble for L.A. Fire Relief. You Won’t Believe the Ending!, a PGA Tour YouTube series, highlighted the close relationship between Homa and Thomas. In this episode, which took place before the 2025 Genesis Invitational, California locals Max Homa and Collin Morikawa joined forces with seasoned entertainment journalist Jason Kennedy and influencer Jimmy Darts.
During the scramble, Jason Kennedy asked Homa about a recent positive affirmation. Reflecting on his experiences, Homa shared his thoughts. “You’re never as far away as you feel like you are. I think that’s pretty much as I’ve gotten older out here.” The mental difficulties faced by golfers and the significance of preserving perspective are brought out in this contemplation.
Kennedy went on to discuss the network of support among golfers, relating an exchange with Justin Thomas. He remarked, “I was at JT’s house, Justin Thomas, and I said, ‘Who do you talk to in this crazy profession, buddy?’ And he shared just a little snippet with me of something that you said that really encouraged him, and I love your friendship.”
Addressing the nature of their connection, Homa stated, “It’s been nice having Justin because it’s a very individual sport, and I want to beat Justin’s brains in every week, and I know he does back to me. But it’s very cool to have somebody I can talk to about just how hard this game is.” Golf’s all about rivalry and friendship, just like Homa and Thomas. This shows how athletes lean on each other through the highs and lows, even in a solo sport like golf. But Homa’s been struggling on the course lately. Let’s see what he’s up against!
Max Homa opens up on his struggles
Six Tour victories since 2018-19 and berths on the U.S. Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup squads, quite notable. In recent years, though, he has been struggling on the course. During a press conference held before the 2025 Genesis Invitational, Max Homa spoke openly about his WM Phoenix Open performance this month, saying, “Last week, I actually hit the ball incredibly, and I missed the cut by five. Golf does not like me at the moment, I’ve noticed that.” Even the best get humbled!
Like a true pro, Homa’s coach offered some perspective, saying, “I think you were six combined feet away from being like 2 or 3 under.” The narrow margins that might distinguish professional golf success from failure are shown in this analysis. Homa said, “It’s a hard game, man, and when it doesn’t like you back, it gets very difficult. So I know I’m moving in the right direction.”
Despite the setbacks, Homa stays positive, focusing on growth and leaning on peers like Justin Thomas for support. Their friendship shows that even in a solo sport like golf, having each other’s backs makes all the difference.
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