Justin Thomas 'champing at the bit' to compete at Zozo

Justin Thomas most recently participated in the Tour Championship on Sept. 1 on the PGA Tour.

To shake off any rust, Thomas will face defending champion Collin Morikawa, along with former major winners Xander Schauffele and Hideki Matsuyama, among others, in the Zozo Championship beginning Thursday in Chiba, Japan.

\"I've had quite a bit of time off,\" Thomas stated on Tuesday at the Accordia Golf Narashino Country Club. \"I was eager to get here. While the time off is enjoyable, if I go too long without competing, I start to feel...not bored, but I want to get back out there and play in tournaments again.\"

Even though he has been idle, Thomas has had a lot on his plate as he and his wife Jillian are expecting their first child in November.

\"Yeah, any golf shot or situation I am in this week, it won't be nearly as challenging as it will be in a month or so when our little one arrives,\" Thomas explained. \"We are very lucky with the timing, being able to come here. I think it will hit me when I am on the flight home and then when I get home because it will be crunch time.

\"I know my wife will be an amazing mother and I am excited for the opportunity to raise a daughter. It will be wonderful. But this week, my focus is on business and trying to win a golf tournament. After that, it's time to go home and prepare to be a dad.\"

At 31 years old, Thomas is aiming for his 16th career victory on the PGA Tour, and his first since his comeback from a seven-shot deficit to win his second PGA Championship in May of 2022. He has had success in Asia, with two CIMB Classic titles in Malaysia and two CJ Cup wins in South Korea.

\"I have had a lot of success in Asia. Don't worry, I have definitely thought about that,\" Thomas assured.