2022 PGA Championship: Top 10 Power Rankings at Southern Hills

Justin Thomas is celebrating the five-year anniversary of his PGA Championship victory. In 2017, JT won by two against a slew of chasers at Quail Hollow.

I think many would be surprised to see him not add to his major tally since then. However, he’s made sure to not let his game slip much and has remained a top-10 player in the world ever since.

Eight PGA Tour victories since Quail Hollow out of 14 for his career are a big reason. Thomas hasn’t lifted a trophy this season, but he’s knocking on the door. Seven top-10s and five top-fives are results most guys would take with three months still remaining until the FedEx Cup Playoffs.

Thomas got into contention in last week’s tune-up at the AT&T Byron Nelson. He was a factor until late Sunday when he couldn’t quite rack up enough birdies to come back, finishing T-5th.

JT has made 15 straight cuts worldwide since May 2021.

In the majors, the former Alabama Crimson Tide has made 20 of 25 cuts with six top-10s, including at this year’s Masters (T-8th).

Thomas ranks fourth on the PGA Tour in total strokes gained. Ball striking is a key contributor as he’s fifth in SG approach (.912) and third in SG tee to green (1.682).

The 27-year-old also sits second in birdie average (5.11) and fifth in scoring average (69.645).

He and Jordan Spieth went to Southern Hills for a practice round this week, so a new course for him in competition won’t be completely unfamiliar.

It’s time for JT to truly get in the mix and be a factor on Sunday in a major. I see his shot-making serving him well in the Oklahoma winds.