Max Homa reveals explosive rivalry with Justin Thomas: ‘we hated each other

In a shocking twist that has fans talking, Max Homa recently peeled back the layers on his complicated history with fellow golfer Justin Thomas, revealing that their relationship was once marred by intense rivalry and animosity. Despite their current camaraderie, Homa confessed that during their college days, they “hated each other,” a sentiment that seems almost unbelievable given their playful banter and mutual support today.

During a revealing episode of the We Need A Fourth podcast, which aired on December 8, Homa recounted his college experiences, particularly the competitive atmosphere that pitted him against Thomas, who was already establishing himself as a golf prodigy. Homa recalled, “I never got to know [Jordan Spieth] until after we turned pro, but Justin, I got close with. Justin was one of the guys I seemed to get paired with a decent amount at the end of my career… We actually hated each other in college, man. Hated,” he shared, punctuating his words with laughter that echoed his disbelief at how far they’ve come.

The tension between the two was perhaps exacerbated by Homa’s struggles with self-esteem during his collegiate career. He previously opened up about grappling with feelings of inadequacy compared to more established players like Thomas. “So it caught late, so now all of a sudden I got catapulted into this category, leaving college with like Justin Thomas, and to me, Justin, my whole time in college, and even before he was in college, he was the dude, right. So I didn’t really feel like I belonged there,” Homa reflected, showcasing how these emotions stoked the fire of their rivalry.

But a pivotal moment in their relationship occurred after Homa’s senior year when circumstances drew them together during a summer of amateur tournaments. “We both got stuck at a table after everybody got up, and we had been drinking, or I had been drinking. I think Justin was 20, but we got to be friendly…” Homa revealed, indicating that sometimes, a few shared laughs over drinks can mend even the most fractured relationships.

Fast forward to the present, and the dynamic between Homa and Thomas is a far cry from their earlier days. Now, they are often seen trading playful jabs, showcasing their deep friendship that thrives on good-natured teasing. During the 2023 Nedbank Challenge, Homa couldn’t resist poking fun at Thomas’s use of the word “thus” in an Instagram post, quipping, “Guy’s saying ‘thus’ like he graduated college or something.” Their exchanges are more than just humorous—they reflect a bond that has evolved into a supportive partnership.

Their camaraderie shone brightly during challenging times, particularly this season when Homa faced significant struggles on the course, including missing both the US Open and The Open. His performance dipped dramatically, leaving him to fight for redemption in fall events. Yet, through these challenges, Homa consistently credited Thomas as a steadfast friend. “Justin Thomas has been like the greatest friend you could ever ask for through all of this,” he stated, underscoring the depth of their friendship that transcends the golf course.

In a world often dominated by fierce competition, the evolution of Homa and Thomas’s relationship serves as a reminder that friendships can blossom from the unlikeliest of beginnings. Their journey from rivals to best friends is a testament to how mutual respect and shared experiences can overcome even the most entrenched animosities. As they continue to navigate the highs and lows of professional golf, one thing is certain: the bond between Max Homa and Justin Thomas is stronger than ever, and their story is just beginning.