On the eve of the 125th edition of the US Open, world number 5, Justin Thomas, held an extensive press conference where he candidly addressed the challenges of Oakmont, his mental evolution as a golfer, and the current dominance of Scottie Scheffler on the global stage. Aware of the course’s demands and the competitive moment he is experiencing, Thomas displayed a mix of humility, ambition, and experience.
JT described Oakmont as a relentless course, one that does not forgive mistakes: “They don’t need to do anything special to make it a mental and physical challenge. Oakmont is naturally so. Any poorly executed drive, wedge, chip, or putt can become ridiculous at full speed.” The golfer from Louisville emphasized that the key in such tournaments is patience and discipline, rather than brilliant play.
“This course makes you look like a fool if you relax for a second”
The American also analysed the current conditions of the course, marked by rain. In his opinion, the humidity completely changes the way to play: “Wet rough can prevent the ball from sinking completely, which makes some chips easier, but makes it harder to hit it cleanly.” He acknowledged that the rain softens the challenge on the greens, but that they “remain very fast and treacherous.”
Regarding the criticised ‘hack-out rough’ – the grass so dense that it forces you to get the ball out without thinking – Thomas defended its presence: “It forces you to hit straight from the tee. Some lies seem tempting and that can lead you to make risky decisions.” In his opinion, the strategy when planning each round remains crucial: “It’s not as simple as grabbing the lob wedge and getting out of there. Sometimes you have to ask yourself if you can get a six iron in or open the club face.”
“Mentally, this course takes many out of the tournament… and I’m glad”
Thomas did not hide that the psychological pressure of Oakmont can affect many players: “Hopefully it will unsettle a few. For me, preparation is also mental. I don’t need to read horror stories, I played here in 2016. I know what’s coming. If I play well and have faith in my game, I will create birdie opportunities.”
Regarding the dominance of the current World Number One, Scottie Scheffler, Thomas was impressed: “He’s doing everything. Every aspect of his game is incredible, but what amazes me most is his mental strength. He plays under tremendous pressure, but remains firm. He doesn’t force himself to be in the fight, he just ends up there.” Although he admitted he dreams of returning to the top spot of the OWGW, he acknowledged: “At this rate, it’s almost impossible to catch him this year… unless he doesn’t play anymore.”
Thomas recalled one of his best rounds on this course during the US Open in 2016, when he scored 69 despite hitting only four fairways: “I chipped three times for birdie. I was exhausted. Brooks (Koepka) couldn’t believe it.” That experience, he says, helps him know that with composure and some opportunism, one can survive at Oakmont.
In a more technical section, Thomas spoke about his relationship with the five wood, a club he has had in the bag for ten years: “I put it in for Augusta because the two iron didn’t hold the greens well. With the 5 wood, I can hit it low or high, shape the shots. It’s a key club for weeks like this.” In short, JT offered a mature and deep insight into what it means to compete in one of the most demanding tournaments in golf.
