Justin Thomas Attempted Left-Handed Shots at Presidents Cup
The golfer utilized unconventional swings after landing in thick rough near a boundary fence.
Updated on Sept. 26, 2026 in Golf
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Justin Thomas hit two left-handed shots on the first hole after his drive landed in a difficult area near a fence. His playing partner Jackson Koivun ultimately secured the hole by sinking a putt from within 10 feet.
Why it matters
Thomas attempted the creative approach because the thick rough and nearby fence prevented him from executing a standard right-handed golf swing. The situation occurred as the International Team maintained a 7-3 lead in the Presidents Cup.
Justin Thomas hit his approach to within 10 feet of the hole after his unconventional recovery. The International Team holds a 4-point lead in the current Presidents Cup standing.
The players
Justin Thomas
He is a professional golfer known for his high-level competition in major tournaments and Presidents Cup play.
Jackson Koivun
He is a golfer competing alongside Justin Thomas during the current Presidents Cup session.
Corey Conners
He is a professional golfer who previously faced Thomas and Koivun during the competition.
Nico Echavarria
He is a professional golfer who played against the American duo earlier in the week.
Adam Scott
He is an experienced professional golfer representing the International Team.
The details
Faced with a blocked path, Thomas swapped his stance to navigate the obstacle near the boundary. Jackson Koivun stepped in to capitalize on the recovery, successfully landing his subsequent shot close to the pin to ensure a positive result for the pair.
Timeline
2017: Justin Thomas attempted a left-handed shot at the Tour Championship.
2019: Justin Thomas practiced left-handed swings.
2020: Justin Thomas played a left-handed match at Grove XXIII.
- 2026-09-25
International team swept Friday Presidents Cup session.
- 2026-09-26
Justin Thomas attempted left-handed shots on Day 3.
Season Trajectory
The aggressive play style at the Presidents Cup highlights the intense competitive balance of the current season. This event follows the established pattern of high-stakes improvisation often seen during the biennial competition.
The International Team holds a 7-3 advantage over the American side in the tournament standings. Jackson Koivun remains a key contributor in helping maintain this momentum during Day 3 play.
The takeaway
Even the most skilled professionals must rely on unconventional techniques to recover from difficult course conditions. Creative shot-making remains a vital tool for golfers when traditional approaches are physically blocked by hazards.
Further reading
For more on the current tournament standings, visit Golf.
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