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The Mysterious Disappearance of JT from the Ryder Cup

In case you haven’t heard, Justin Thomas is experiencing something of a dry spell right now. His position in the Official World Golf Rankings has plummeted from eighth to twenty-fourth since the start of 2023. JT is 77th in the FedEx Cup rankings with two weeks left in the regular season. Since the playoffs are now limited to the best 70 players, he would be eliminated from contention if they began today. He hopes to enhance his standing by doing well at the 3M Open this week. This is an unfathomable fall for a player who, at his best, ranks in the top five or so of his sport. Both a spot on the U.S. Ryder Cup Team and the FedEx Cup Playoffs are in jeopardy. On the American points list, where the top six players are guaranteed spots after the BMW Championship, he is now ranked 14th. If he doesn’t make the postseason, he’ll fall farther in the standings.
THE NUMBERS SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES…
What is Justin Thomas’ Ryder Cup record?
Post the 2021 event, Justin Thomas has, so far, earned 6.5 points from 9 matches: a 72% win rate.
More about Justin Thomas’ Ryder Cup record.
A serious competitor, we can look forward to many more Ryder Cup appearances by Justin Thomas:
Singles: 2 wins, no losses from 2 matches (100% win rate).
Fourball: 2 wins, no losses and a half from 3 matches (83% win rate)
Foursomes: 2 win, 2 losses from 4 matches (50% win rate).
Thomas has emerged as a key player for the U.S. squad over the past few years. His play has been superb, to be sure, but his theatrics have served to his advantage by frustrating the Europeans. Thomas is playing in both the 3M Open this week and the Wyndham Championship the following week due to his perilous position in the FedEx Cup standings and the Ryder Cup points list. Thomas can improve his chances of being selected as a captain of his team or of cracking the top 70 and making the playoffs with consistent play.
If you had told someone in May of 2022 that Justin Thomas wouldn’t be playing in the Ryder Cup because of his terrible play, they would have laughed you out of the room. He had recently won the PGA Championship at Southern Hills and appeared to be on track for more success at the major championship level. Since his PGA victory, Thomas has played in 24 tournaments with a full field, but he has only managed four top-10 performances. This season, he ranks 43rd in Strokes Gained: Total, down from 6th the previous year. Thomas has gone from being an all-star to being a decent player. The primary reasons for this are a decline in his use of the driver and other irons.
Zach Johnson, as captain, is in a precarious position after this misstep. Thomas’s current performance level does not justify his inclusion in the Ryder Cup. However, he is well-liked by the other American superstars and is one of the biggest names in the player pool. If Thomas keeps his current level of performance and Johnson still selects him, it will be seen as a political rather than a merit-based decision. This selection process is typical of previous editions and tends to favor players who are popular rather than those who play well. It might spark a revolt among players who, together, have stronger credentials from the past two seasons.
Truth be told, most golfers consider making the Ryder Cup squad a career highlight. Similar to being selected for an all-star game in other sports, this honor recognizes sustained achievement over a number of seasons. Ryder Cups serve as a yardstick by which to compare the careers of American and European greats of yesteryear. An incredible feat, Phil Mickelson played in every Ryder Cup from 1995-2018. Also, I think it would look great on Justin Thomas’s resume if he had participated in seven or eight straight Ryder Cups. He is currently counting to two. There are only three spots left, and Thomas is competing with Keegan Bradley (2012, 2014) for one of them. Bradley’s remarkable longevity in the industry would be highlighted if he were to make the 2023 squad.
Ryder Cup selections not only add prestige to a player’s resume but also pay well. Players that make the Ryder Cup team have a better chance of receiving large sums of money via the PGA Tour’s new Player Incentive Program (PIP), which rewards players who bring in the most attention and media coverage for the sport. If Justin Thomas makes the team, he could make seven figures between sponsor bonuses and potential player incentive payments. Of course, it’s also very valuable to the stragglers with whom Thomas is vying for a spot in the Ryder Cup. A berth on the Ryder Cup Team would be a huge boost in exposure for golfers like Cameron Young, Sam Burns, and others. Players are not compensated for their participation in the Ryder Cup, yet doing so still provides a significant financial benefit. It also lays the stage for complaints if Thomas falters in the final stretch but still makes the team.
Thomas has a good argument, though. If he performs well at the 3M and Wyndham, makes the playoffs and maintains his form during the postseason events, he will likely be selected. But if he struggles and doesn’t improve his current FedEx Cup standing of 77th to make the playoffs, that will be a huge problem for Zach Johnson. Oh yeah, and who can forget this moment in France when he and Daniel Berger Shotgunned Beers in front of screeming American fans… I for one loved it!
The PGA, the DP World Tour, the TV partners, the advertisers, and anyone else with a financial stake in the Ryder Cup would love to have Justin Thomas on their squad. He has the capacity to attract a wider, non-golfing audience to a tournament than almost any other golfer. For the first time in 30 years, the Ryder Cup will be played on European territory, and Johnson must balance the expectations of others with his responsibility to assemble the greatest possible American squad. If JT keeps playing poorly, it will be difficult to argue that he is your best bet for victory. A legacy selection would also certainly spark controversy and disagreement among fans and players who were overlooked for the spot. There has been a change in the U.S. national team’s identity in recent years, from one based on special treatment to one based on meritocracy. Unless Thomas significantly raises his game, selecting him would be a throwback to the good ol’ boys ethos of the past few decades.
The political pressure on Zach Johnson has been increased by the announcement this week that Justin Thomas would participate in Johnson’s fundraising outing in Des Moines. There would be intense pressure from players and the media if Thomas made the team without showing significant improvement in the next two weeks.
The aforementioned modification to the FedEx Cup structure adds yet another layer. The PGA Tour has reduced the number of qualifying spots for the playoffs from 125 to 70 this season. With a decent week or two of performance in the past, JT’s chances of advancing were never in doubt, and he could realistically play in numerous playoff events. Switching to a top-70 format was a brilliant change that has worked out beautifully thus far. Thomas probably wouldn’t have played the 3M if he had already clinched a playoff spot. Fans in Minnesota can finally witness one of the sport’s most recognizable athletes compete for actual money. The Thomas case has given this week’s news a dramatic edge it otherwise wouldn’t have had. Intensifying competition for playoff spots has woken up a period of the season that is often quiet. The events and the audience members both benefit from that. Personally, I hope he has a great game. With Justin Thomas as a competitor, the Ryder Cup will be more exciting than if he were an assistant captain

Fun Fact: In 2020 and 2021, the Par 3 Contest was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, making its return in 2022 all the more cherished by players and fans alike.
Every April, as azaleas bloom and the eyes of the golf world turn to Augusta, one beloved tradition kicks off the festivities with charm, smiles, and a dose of superstition: The Masters Par 3 Contest.
Since its inception in 1960, the Par 3 Contest has been a lighthearted prelude to one of the most prestigious events in golf. Held the Wednesday before the first round of The Masters, this fan-favorite exhibition takes place on a 9-hole course nestled within the Augusta National grounds. Though its tone is far more relaxed than the main event, the Par 3 Contest is steeped in its own rich history and lore.
A Legacy of Fun (and Family)
The idea was the brainchild of legendary Augusta National Chairman Clifford Roberts, who envisioned a more casual, fan-friendly event that would complement the seriousness of the tournament itself. The course, designed by George Cobb in collaboration with Roberts, features holes ranging from 70 to 140 yards, wrapping around a series of picturesque ponds and creeks.
What sets the contest apart is the joy. It’s not uncommon to see legends of the game handing off putters to their grandkids or teeing off with their children. Many players invite their families to serve as caddies, often clad in the iconic white Augusta jumpsuits. These moments create some of the week’s most heartwarming and viral images—tiny toddlers sinking putts, Hall of Famers laughing with their spouses, and multi-generational bonding that transcends the game itself.
Star Power and Special Moments
Over the years, the Par 3 Contest has produced unforgettable highlights. In 2008, Gary Player, at 73 years old, aced the 7th hole. In 2015, Jack Nicklaus hit a hole-in-one at the age of 75—adding to a staggering total of over 100 aces recorded during the event’s history.
It’s also become an informal showcase of golf’s greatest legends. In many years past, you might see Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, and Gary Player—collectively known as the “Big Three”—sharing laughs and swinging side by side. Today, stars like Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy, and Jordan Spieth keep the spirit alive, bringing their kids, friends, or even celebrities along for the ride.
The Par 3 Curse
Despite the fun, there’s one unspoken truth players know all too well: No winner of the Par 3 Contest has ever gone on to win The Masters in the same year.
Call it superstition or coincidence, but many contenders intentionally avoid trying too hard to win the Wednesday event. They’ll joke about laying up on par-3s or missing short putts on purpose. For those laser-focused on the green jacket, taking home the crystal trophy from Wednesday might feel like a kiss of death.
More Than Just a Sideshow
While it’s technically an exhibition, the Par 3 Contest captures something that often gets lost in elite competition: pure joy. It’s a chance for players to breathe, fans to connect, and Augusta National to showcase its softer side. In an event known for its rigid traditions and rules, this one feels like a sweet exhale before the storm.
Whether it’s a child’s first swing, a legend’s final walk, or a spontaneous hole-in-one, the Par 3 Contest continues to add magic to Masters week—reminding us all that golf, at its heart, is a game to be enjoyed.
Final Thoughts
The Masters Par 3 Contest might not crown a green jacket winner, but it wins hearts year after year. It’s living proof that in a sport built on precision and patience, there’s still plenty of room for fun, family, and a little bit of luck.

Golf attire has undergone significant transformations over the centuries, evolving from formal, restrictive clothing to today’s stylish, performance-oriented apparel.

Before 1920
Originating in the cold, windy landscapes of Scotland, early golfers dressed primarily for warmth and protection. Typical attire included full tweed suits, often accompanied by waistcoats and neckties. Knickers, resembling knee breeches, were common, paired with high socks and sturdy leather shoes. Hats varied from pork-pie styles to wide-brimmed designs. While functional against harsh weather, this layered clothing restricted movement, impacting players’ swings.

1920s – 1960s
As golf gained popularity in the United States, attire began to reflect contemporary fashion trends. The 1920s introduced plus-fours—knickers extending four inches below the knee—paired with two-toned shirts and, occasionally, ties. In cooler conditions, players opted for knitted wool cardigans or Norfolk jackets. The 1930s saw a shift to lighter fabrics, with short-sleeved knitted shirts and slacks becoming common. Outerwear like the Eisenhower jacket and cardigan sweaters with bell-shaped sleeves allowed greater freedom of movement. Footwear evolved to feature sturdy leather shoes with spikes, enhancing grip on the course.

1960s – 2000
The 1960s marked a departure from muted tones, embracing vibrant colors such as greens, blues, and reds. Bold tops contrasted with lighter trousers or shorts, reflecting the era’s fashion sensibilities. Public figures like President John F. Kennedy popularized “Go to Hell” pants—colorful, shorter trousers in eye-catching hues. Recognizing the growing market, brands like FootJoy, Adidas, Nike, Polo Golf Ralph Lauren, and Ashworth launched dedicated golf apparel lines. However, endorsements by celebrity players remained understated during this period.

Since 2000
By the late 1990s, golf had cemented its status among top U.S. sports, leading to lucrative endorsements and a surge in golf club memberships. The game’s evolving dynamics emphasized athleticism, precision, and speed, necessitating advancements in attire. Lightweight, comfortable, and elegant clothing became the norm. Colorful, collared cotton T-shirts paired with tan or khaki shorts or trousers dominated the fairways. Headwear transitioned to pork-pie shapes and baseball caps, while footwear saw a shift from traditional leather to sporty designs from brands like Nike and Adidas.

After 2010
The past decade has witnessed a significant shift in golf fashion, influenced by broader cultural trends and technological advancements. The rise of athleisure blurred the lines between sportswear and casual wear, leading to the incorporation of jogger-style pants, hoodies, and stretchy, moisture-wicking materials in golf attire. Brands like Lululemon and Under Armour introduced high-performance golf wear suitable both on and off the course. Collaborations with streetwear labels injected a youthful energy into the sport, attracting a new generation of players. Additionally, sustainability became a focal point, with companies like Reflo producing apparel from recycled materials, reflecting a growing environmental consciousness among consumers. citeturn0search26

This evolution of golf attire mirrors the sport’s journey from its traditional roots to a modern, inclusive game that embraces both style and functionality.
Blog
Love on the Fairway: Heartwarming Golf Course Love Stories
Like golf itself, not all rounds end well

Golf is often seen as a sport of precision, patience, and strategy. But for many, the golf course has been more than just a field of play—it has been a setting for romance, a backdrop to chance encounters, and a place where love has blossomed amidst the rolling greens and sand traps. From serendipitous meetings to long-lasting partnerships, love stories on the golf course are as varied as the game itself.

Rory McIlroy and Erica Stoll: A Love Story Across Continents
One of the most well-known golf love stories is that of Rory McIlroy and Erica Stoll. The two first crossed paths at the 2012 Ryder Cup, where Stoll, then working for the PGA of America, played a key role in ensuring McIlroy made it to his tee time on time after a scheduling mishap. What began as a simple act of kindness blossomed into a deep friendship and eventually a romance. The couple tied the knot in a stunning ceremony in 2017, but sadly ended their relationship recently.

A Proposal with a Hole-in-One: Dustin Johnson and Paulina Gretzky
For some, the golf course has set the stage for unforgettable romantic gestures. Dustin Johnson, one of the most dominant players in professional golf, found love with Paulina Gretzky, daughter of hockey legend Wayne Gretzky. The couple first met in 2009 but didn’t start dating until 2013. Johnson proposed later that year, and they have since built a family together. Paulina has been a constant presence at tournaments, supporting Johnson as he has claimed major victories, including his 2020 Masters triumph.

From Tee to “I Do”: Brooks Koepka and Jena Sims
Beyond proposals, many professional golfers have incorporated golf into their weddings. Brooks Koepka and actress Jena Sims, for example, have been an inseparable couple since they began dating in 2017. Known for their playful chemistry, Koepka and Sims tied the knot in a lavish beachside wedding in 2022. Jena, a passionate golfer herself, frequently accompanies Brooks to tournaments and has been a source of motivation through his career highs and lows.

Love Beyond Competition: Tiger Woods and His Romantic Journey
Golf can be a competitive game, but for many professional players, it has also been a source of love and companionship. Tiger Woods, one of the greatest golfers of all time, has had a well-documented personal life. His relationship with former ski racer Lindsey Vonn was one of the most high-profile pairings in sports. Although they eventually parted ways, their shared passion for competition and mutual respect demonstrated how athletes from different disciplines can find common ground and support one another.

Senior Love Stories: Bernard Langer and Vikki Carol
Love stories on the golf course are not just for young couples. Many senior golfers have found lasting love through the sport. Take two-time Masters champion Bernhard Langer and his wife, Vikki Carol. Married for over 35 years, the couple has built a life together centered around faith, family, and golf. Vikki has been a steadfast supporter of Langer’s career, traveling with him across the globe as he continues to dominate the PGA Tour Champions circuit.
The Golf Course: A Timeless Venue for Love
There’s something about the golf course that lends itself to romance. Perhaps it’s the tranquil setting, the shared moments of triumph and frustration, or the simple joy of spending hours together in a relaxed and beautiful environment. Whether it’s a first date, a proposal, a wedding, or decades of companionship, the golf course has played a pivotal role in many love stories, including those of PGA professionals.
So the next time you tee off, take a moment to appreciate the connections that golf fosters—not just between club and ball, but between people. You never know if your next round might lead to a love story of your own.
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