The Dubai-based Indian golfer, the 24-year-old Rayhan Thomas, waited for nearly three months before continuing at Karsten Creek while awaiting the start of his final season at Oklahoma State University (OSU).
Thomas has battled persistent pain. However, Thomas showed up, achieving a remarkable feat of breaking 100. In the golf circuit, breaking 100 is considered one of the toughest layouts. Within just three weeks, he surpassed expectations by breaking 80, showcasing his determination and skill.
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Recovery from injury
During this period, Thomas played under unique conditions with his teammates. His teammates would give him strokes, which he managed to win quite a few lunches beating them. His practiced some one-handed shots, which helped him to develop a solid drill.
He had his surgery in last year's October. This had sidelined him from his game until January, when he bounced back. He switched on his professional mode in May, in his first Asian Tour event at the International Series Morocco. There, he finished eighth.
Thomas Shines at International Series Thailand
Recently, he has also participated at the International Series Thailand. He shot a bogey-free seven-under-par 63 in the second round at Thai Country Club, climbing to tied 14th place at eight-under-par total. The round was his lowest since turning professional just five months ago.
However, Thomas has no plan of settling with this. He eyes major tournaments like the Korn Ferry Tour and the DP World Tour. In fact, in both tournaments, he has already advanced to the second stage of qualification.
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Rayhan Thomas plans for 2025
Later, he won the Coimbatore Open on his domestic debut on the PGTI circuit, adding more feathers to his young career.
Thomas hasn't had a full-time tour. However, he is optimistic, especially with the Asian Tour Q School in the last half of this year. He is also preparing for a steady 2025.
Among his career highlights is a stunning round alongside 2011 Open champion Darren Clarke at the 2017 Dubai Creek Open, where Thomas matched a world record by making nine consecutive birdies.