GOLF: Fresh off return, Justin Thomas looks to carry Players momentum into Valspar

Justin Thomas is still re-learning what it feels like to be in form after six months away from competition, but early signs have been encouraging.

Coming off a high-profile return with starts at Bay Hill and The Players Championship, Thomas believes his game is capable of contending, even if performing under tournament pressure remains a different challenge. He missed the cut in his first tournament following back surgery at the Arnold Palmer Invitational but earned a top-10 finish with a tie for eighth at The Players.

"Last week was huge for me, and I’m very proud of myself, to be honest," Thomas said ahead of the Valspar Championship. "Although I wish the weekend would have gone differently or better. Coming off six months away from competition, I’m definitely proud and happy about that, and hopefully, I can carry a little momentum from last week going forward."

Thomas has marked the Valspar Championship on his calendar, where he finished runner-up last year after bogeying two of the final three holes and losing by one stroke to Norway’s Viktor Hovland.

"I think it’s one of the most underrated courses we have," Thomas said. "If you’re not sharp or managing your game or emotions well, you can make bogeys so fast."

Physically, Thomas said he feels fine, though worn down after two straight weeks on tough setups. He described Monday’s physio room as unusually quiet, with players appearing drained. With an even busier schedule of major events coming later this spring, Thomas said his main focus is staying mentally fresh and avoiding self-inflicted mistakes.

He also shared his thoughts on the PGA Tour’s ongoing efforts to tweak its Signature Event model, including discussions about expanding fields. Thomas hasn’t talked to other players about specifics but likes the idea of clarity and believes cuts still matter. "Cuts are a part of our game," he said. "I think it’s a big part of the history of golf."

When asked about sponsor exemptions, Thomas was direct. "What, are you going to tell Tiger Woods he can’t play if he wants to play? Like, I’m sorry, but you’re an idiot if that’s what you think."

—Field Level Media/Reuters