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“Gonna Compare Him”: After Sending Flattering Words Justin Thomas’ Way, Ryder Cup Rival Rory McIlroy Makes a Surprising Statement

Published 09/16/2023, 11:40 AM EDT

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How amazing it is when a golfer appreciates another golfer for his incredible form! Recently something similar happened on one of the podcasts wherein Rory McIlroy went on to praise the American Ryder Cup team rival golfer Justin Thomas.

On the podcast, the Northern Irish golfer praised JT not once but twice for his honorable skills. Even JT responded to the sweet gesture from McIlroy. Let’s find out what exactly is going on between the Ryder Cup rivals.

Rory McIlroy compares Justin Thomas with another golfing legend

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McIlroy was at the famous podcast “Golf’s Subpar” along with fellow PGA Tour player Colt Knost. There, he went on to talk about Europe’s strategy for the Ryder Cup and his role in the PGA Tour vs LIV saga. 

However, while he was talking about these matters, at one time, he went on to compare Thomas with Sergio Garcia. McIlroy praised the Former world No. 1 golfer by stating that the passion JT carries is similar to what Garcia has shown over the years.

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The 34-year-old golfer said, “JT, if you’re gonna compare him to someone on the European team over the years is probably Sergio, just in terms of that fire and that passion and obviously the resume that he has as a as an individual as well.” 

JT needed this kind of compliment ahead of the event since his place in the US squad has been questioned by many on account of his poor show for the most part of the season. What is surprising though is that McIlroy doesn’t have a great opinion of all golfers who defected to LIV Golf and Garcia is one of them.

Read More: Ryder Cup’s Young Gun Is Having a Dream Run at the Expense of Comrades Rory McIlroy and Viktor Hovland: ‘I’m Trying to Take Everything I Can’

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JT got goosebumps following McIlroy’s praise

JT missed the FedEx Cup playoff this season as he couldn’t qualify for the prestigious event. But then something remarkable happened. US captain Zach Johnson, against all odds, picked him in the Ryder Cup squad. Clearly, he needed these words of praise from McIlroy. During a live interview on Friday with Golf Channel, Kira Dixon revealed to JT about McIlroy’s words of praise for him.

On the podcast, McIlroy had also remarked that the USA roster has several talented golfers but he wouldn’t want a match-up with JT. To which, 2-time PGA Championship winner Justin Thomas responded, “That’s actually giving me goosebumps. That’s very cool for him to say. I take that as a compliment.”

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McIlroy’s positive comments have indeed stolen the heart of JT. On that note, are you excited to witness them teeing off against each other in the upcoming Ryder Cup? Let us know in the comments section below.

Watch This Story:  “Spasmed, Seized up”: Shortly after a fiery start at the 75000000 clash Rory McIlroy confesses a painful truth

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Written by:

Alisha Kotadia

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Alisha is a fresh EssentiallySports writer who was recruited in the latest ‘ES Draft’ round. Although she is in her early days, her act of putting the sport to paper is commendable. She is building herself up to be a powerhouse when it comes to coverage of the sport.
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Edited by:

Prateek Srivastava

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