A spin and a deadly stare back towards Europe’s boisterous fans. Justin Thomas roared in delight, banishing any doubts about his presence in Rome.
It was a nervy, slippery putt from six feet down the slope on 15 and then the two-time major champion faced another, this time six feet on 18 after Viktor Hovland’s astonishing 26 ft birdie. The putts made Thomas’ shoulders and knees tremble. Yet, on both occasions, he opted to reset in a crucial, mature move that defined not just the match, but, perhaps, even the Ryder Cup if Team USA are able to summon an early charge on Saturday. The whistling from Europe’s fans only cranked up the intensity of each moment, yet they provided the necessary stimulation to inspire Thomas’ fierce determination.
