Justin Thomas recently opened up about his complex relationship with Rory McIlroy, highlighting a memorable instance during their Ryder Cup singles match in 2018 when he admitted to temporarily “hating” the Northern Irish golfer. Despite their close friendship on the PGA Tour, the stakes of the competition led Thomas to set aside pleasantries in pursuit of victory.
During a recent interview, Thomas explained that while he holds McIlroy in high regard—calling him a role model and an important figure during his early career—the intense atmosphere of the Ryder Cup necessitated fierce rivalry, even among friends. “It’s nothing personal… We hated each other for 18 holes,” he said, emphasizing that this competitive spirit didn’t reflect personal animosity.
This dynamic was echoed in the context of the ongoing 153rd Open Championship, where both Thomas and McIlroy were paired together for the first two rounds. Thomas, who has a notable Ryder Cup record, faced challenges in recent major tournaments but managed to make the cut by finishing one under par. Meanwhile, McIlroy soared to an impressive tied fourth position.
Adding a humorous twist to his competitive nature, Thomas joked that if his wife were competing against him in a Ryder Cup scenario, she too would be his enemy, illustrating just how serious he takes competition. His wife, Jill, is well aware of his drive and competitive spirit.
Despite facing ups and downs in recent events, both players have had significant achievements this season: Thomas celebrated his first PGA Tour win in three years at the RBC Heritage, while McIlroy made headlines in April by winning the Masters, completing his career Grand Slam.
This rivalry and camaraderie add depth to the narrative of the modern golf tour, showcasing the intensity and dedication that players bring to the sport. The ongoing competitive season is sure to bring more thrilling encounters between these top athletes.