SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. It feels like just yesterday when Justin Thomas and Scottie Scheffler were the new rising stars on the PGA Tour. With Thomas at 31 and Scheffler at 28, they are not exactly old-timers yet. However, this year's WM Phoenix Open may signal a transition, as they find themselves playing alongside younger talents like former Alabama golfer Nick Dunlap and college golfer Luke Clanton, both 21. 'It's wild,' Thomas remarked after his Thursday round, reflecting on his first experience of playing with two golfers a decade his junior. Clanton, who has impressive stats as an amateur, considers Scheffler a mentor, a relationship that reflects the evolution of their roles on the Tour. Meanwhile, Thomas is set to compete in the WM Phoenix Open for the 11th time, showcasing his impressive career that began in 2013 with 15 wins, including two majors. Scheffler, who turned pro in 2018, trails closely behind with 13 wins, starting with his victory at the Phoenix Open in 2022. In another highlight, Thomas engaged with media after a Pro-Am tournament. Surrounded by sports celebrities like Olympic champion Michael Phelps and golfer influencer Grant Horvat, he shared a lighthearted moment when actor Christopher McDonald, known for his role as Shooter McGavin from 'Happy Gilmore,' joined the press conference to tease Thomas about his upcoming acting role in 'Happy Gilmore 2.' The film promises to blend nostalgia and humor, keeping fans excited for its release. Thomas’s enthusiasm for the film highlights how intertwined sports culture and entertainment have become, creating a unique atmosphere at TPC Scottsdale this week. As the landscape of the PGA Tour shifts, Justin Thomas and Scottie Scheffler continue to adapt, not just as competitors but as mentors and role models for the new generation of golfers joining the ranks.
