Like many in the golf world, he had his doubts at first but now he’s a believer.
Former world No.1 Justin Thomas was skeptical of the revolutionary methods Bryson DeChambeau adopted in his search for success.
Dubbed ‘The Scientist’ due to his willingness to test his boundaries and trial new technology, DeChambeau returned to the golf course following the coronavirus hiatus 40 pounds heavier having spent hours in the gym. It was a weight gain that allowed him to hit the ball even further — DeChambeau comfortably leads the PGA Tour’s driving distance rankings.
The revamp reaped immediate rewards for the American, as he won his maiden major, romping to a six-shot victory at Winged Foot Golf Club in Mamaroneck, New York last month.
DeChambeau’s success and transformation is described by Thomas as “unbelievable.”
“I’m the first to admit that I didn’t think it was going to work that well and I didn’t necessarily agree with what he was doing,” Thomas told CNN Sport’s Patrick Snell.
“But he’s proven it. He’s just won a major at one of the hardest golf courses in the world,” added Thomas, who has also been impressed by DeChambeau’s putting.
“As far as he hits it, as strong as he’s gotten, as much weight as he’s put on, he putts the c**p out of it to be perfectly honest.
“He’s getting some of us out here to try to find that extra gear. He’s going to continue to work hard and try to get stronger.”
Thomas is also conscious of getting “stronger,” but he’s taking it step-by-step.
“You just hope that he [DeChambeua] doesn’t hurt himself like a lot of, I guess, other people have trying to get stronger and get fit. But I know that’s what I’m doing. I’m trying to get stronger. But most importantly, I’m trying to continue to play injury free.”