CHARLOTTE (N.C.) — Justin Thomas may give up one his Wanamaker Trophys in exchange for a meat or pepperoni pizza.
Thomas, winner of the PGA Championship in 2011, said: “I want a Pizza like you can’t imagine.” “Like, I would do some really bad things for a ranch-drenched pizza.”
He’s now three months into his commitment to follow a gluten-free and dairy-free diet for a year.
“Last summer I felt that I had an odd year. The heat got to me. The first week I spent in Tulsa, I was sick. I was so sick. I think I had a sinus infection. I felt like I didn’t have any energy. I don’t know how I managed to play well that week. Thomas explained that it was immediately after Byron Nelson which was incredibly hot.
After the Tour Championship final round in humid Atlanta, he vomited in the locker room.
He said: “Every time it gets hot I am so tired by the end of the night, and I’m also tired in the morning.”
Thomas has been on a special diet that Dr. Ara Suppiah prescribed for NBC Sports, Golf Channel and his chief medical doctor. What foods has he added to his diet since?
He laughed, “Sometimes, I’ll just breathe in to get some fresh air.”
Thomas is fortunate to share a home with Jordan Spieth, Rickie Fooler, and other golfers. They also have their own personal chef, Michael Parker.
Thomas explained that it was difficult to tell the waitress and waiter what is going on when they are on vacation or on the road. Thomas said, “I can eat a lot of chicken, steak, fish, vegetables, and rice. I also like most salads. Some dressings are okay, but you have to watch what is in them.”
Thomas, who celebrated Saturday his birthday, said he wished to have won on the PGA Tour 20 times before turning 30, but “settled for 15”. Thomas’ new diet isn’t showing immediate results. He has dropped to No. Thomas missed the Masters cut last month and is now ranked No. The hard-core diet, however, is further proof of his willingness to do whatever it takes to maximize his abilities on the course.
“Three month in, I feel much better. I have more energy and my body feels great. I am moving well. “I’m one of those guys who won’t even try it if they don’t do something,” he said. “I hope it works because I hate not being able eat good food, but I won’t find out if it does if I do not try it. You know what I mean?”
