Dubai-born golfer Rayhan Thomas is making significant strides in his professional career, having recently advanced to Stage 2 of the PGA Tour Qualifying School following a commendable performance in Nebraska.
During a short stopover in Dubai, Thomas spoke with Khaleej Times about his journey since turning pro in June and his upcoming schedule. "I achieved my target for last week," he said about Stage 1. "The weather was perfect for golf, and I managed to hit a lot of fairways and greens in regulation."
Over the course of 72 holes, Thomas recorded 18 birdies, 45 pars, and just nine bogeys, demonstrating his consistency and confidence throughout the tournament. He is now gearing up for the next challenge – Stage 2 of the PGA Tour Qualifying School, with the final stage set to be held at the renowned TPC Sawgrass in Florida.
Additionally, Thomas will compete in Stage 2 of the DP World Tour Qualifying School in Spain later this month, followed by the six-round Final Stage in November. Currently in Dubai, Thomas is preparing for his upcoming appearance in the $2 million International Series Thailand, held at Thai Country Club.
"I’ll be here until the 20th of October, then I’ll head to Thailand with my mum, who’ll just watch me play this time," he shared. He plans to practice at The Els Club, Emirates Golf Club, and Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, where he is a member.
On completing his round, Thomas drove 300 miles from Nebraska to Oklahoma to stay with his friend, world number eight Viktor Hovland, who also attended Oklahoma State University. Thomas now advances to one of the five Second Stage qualifiers on the PGA Tour, all of which are scheduled to be played by December 6th.
The Final 72-hole Stage of qualifying will take place from December 12th to 15th at TPC Sawgrass, Florida, across both the Dye’s Valley Course and Sawgrass Country Club. Thomas is also set to participate in Stage Two of the DP World Tour Qualifying School in Spain from October 31st to November 3rd, followed by the six-round Final Stage at Infinitum Golf in Spain from November 8th to 13th.
"I am here in Dubai until 20th October – then I will fly with my mum – to play in Thailand," said Thomas. "Mum will just watch me play and will not caddie or do anything else." He added, "This week, I will practice and prepare for Thailand – my sister is in town – she is normally in India, so it is great to have the family together."
Thomas also mentioned his plans to practice at The Els Club, Emirates Golf Club, and Dubai Creek. Reflecting on his performance since turning professional on June 1st, 2024, he said, "My report card of how I have done since turning professional on 1st June 2024 is a solid B+. I have got through two First stages of Q’School – won on the PGTI and had a top 10 on the Asian Tour." He concluded, "This is only the start – through playing University golf and seeing golf as a professional - I have always known the standard of golf required – so there is no complacency from my side."
