LOUISVILLE, Ky. — "J-T" chants echoed across Valhalla Golf Club Wednesday as hometown hero Justin Thomas left the green to much applause.
When tournament play begins Thursday at the 2024 PGA Championship, the Louisville native will have a great backing of fans. Thomas is the 2017 and 2022 PGA Champion, but now, he has an opportunity to capture a prestigious win in his backyard.
“We hope he does really, really well," spectator Sally Rieger said.
A few hours before his applause break on the 18th green, Thomas had a chance encounter with young fan, 8-year-old Rylan Potts of Louisville.
“Justin Thomas gave me a signed golf ball ... he just gave it to me," Potts said.
The friendly exchange at the Hole 10 tee box marked a great start to the Louisville family’s outing at Valhalla.
"He just came over, super nice, super, genuine," said Rylan Potts' father, Jordan Potts. "It was an amazing experience for all of us."
Like so many around the state, the Potts were rooting for Thomas.
“It’s amazing to see a local, homegrown boy here in Louisville, Kentucky, playing in such a major championship," Jordan Potts said.
Rieger and Bridget Olson, who are from Tennessee, said they enjoyed seeing Thomas' reception despite not being from Kentucky.
"You’ve got to love him," Olson said. "He just seems like a great guy."
Thomas begins competition Thursday morning on Hole 10 and is scheduled to tee off at 7:53 a.m.