Why Justin Thomas finished the 2024 PGA Championship in tears

Emotions were running high as Justin Thomas walked off the 18th green at the US PGA, and he barely managed to hold back tears when speaking to reporters after his round.

As a proud Kentucky native, the 31-year-old Thomas found himself in the midst of a home crowd at Valhalla Golf Club. 

Despite falling short of his third PGA Championship, the overwhelming support he received from the crowd was clearly a moving experience.

Thomas started the day five shots back from the overnight leader and eventual winner, Xander Schauffele. 

Still, despite his best efforts and some miraculous hole-outs, his final round 68 wasn't enough to put him in contention at the end of the day.

Thomas eventually finished eight shots back from Schauffele in a tie for eighth.

Reflecting on his round, Thomas was struggling to hold back the tears when speaking to Sky Sports. 

He said:

"That was pretty special walking up 18. Obviously wish I could've had a chance to win.

"It was just so much fun. I can't put it into words."

It was at this point in the interview that Thomas became visibly emotional.

Pressed by Kira Dixon to explain his emotions, he added:

"Yeah. It's just special. It was a fun week. I'm just glad I can do this and play in front of my hometown."

Watch Thomas' full reaction below

Since his last PGA Championship win in 2022, Thomas has experienced one of the toughest periods of his career, and his world ranking position has dropped to 31st. 

Despite recording four top-ten finishes this season, his form in majors heading into the week had dried up completely. He had missed the cut in four of the last five, with his best finish being T65 at the US PGA last year. 

In spite of that, JT was clearly buoyed by the home crowd and produced some excellent golf across the four days. 

Thomas also stuck around by the 18th green after his round and was among the first people to congratulate Schauffele on his major victory. 

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