Justin Thomas Fires Final Round 63 to Win Genesis Invitational by Two Shots at Riviera

Justin Thomas delivered one of the most spectacular final rounds in recent PGA Tour memory on Saturday afternoon, carding a bogey-free 8-under-par 63 to overcome a four-shot deficit and win the Genesis Invitational by two strokes at Riviera Country Club. The victory marks Thomas first PGA Tour triumph since the 2022 PGA Championship and represents a triumphant return to form for the 33-year-old who has endured one of the most challenging periods of his professional career.

Thomas began the final round in a tie for sixth place, four shots behind overnight leader Max Homa, but quickly served notice of his intentions with birdies on three of his first four holes. The Kentucky native looked supremely confident with his iron play throughout the round, consistently finding the correct portions of Rivieras notoriously difficult greens and converting makeable putts with the precision that characterized his best years on tour. His approach shot to the par-4 10th hole, which settled just 18 inches from the pin, epitomized the quality of his ball-striking.

The turning point came at the par-5 17th hole, where Thomas produced perhaps the shot of the week with a perfectly executed 4-iron from 210 yards that found the heart of the green and set up an eagle putt from 12 feet. When the putt found the bottom of the cup, Thomas erupted in celebration, knowing that the eagle had likely secured his first victory in nearly four years. The roar from the gallery was deafening, with many fans who had witnessed Thomas struggles during recent seasons showing genuine emotion at his breakthrough moment.

Max Homa, the defending champion and hometown favorite, put up a valiant fight but ultimately finished two shots behind after a respectable final-round 70. The UCLA product had carried himself with characteristic grace throughout the week, but admitted afterward that Thomas exceptional play made victory nearly impossible. Homa tied for second place alongside Scottie Scheffler, who closed with a 66 but could not quite match Thomas blistering pace over the final 18 holes.

The victory carries special significance for Thomas, who had openly discussed his struggles with confidence and swing mechanics that had plagued him since his major championship triumph at Southern Hills. Working with swing coach Mike Schy, Thomas had gradually rebuilt his technique while maintaining the aggressive mindset that made him one of the tours most feared competitors during his prime years. His emotional celebration on the 18th green spoke to the personal journey he has endured while fighting to reclaim his status among golf elite players.

As Thomas hoisted the championship trophy in the setting California sun, the golf world was reminded of his exceptional talent and competitive spirit that had made him a fan favorite throughout his career. The victory not only ends a lengthy winless drought but also positions him perfectly for the upcoming Masters Tournament, where he will arrive with renewed confidence and the kind of positive momentum that often translates into major championship success.