AUSTIN (AFP) – Justin Thomas won twice on Saturday to move one triumph from the world number one ranking and into a semi-final against two-time Masters champion Bubba Watson at the WGC Match-Play Championship.
Second seed Thomas, who won his first major title at last August’s PGA Championship, routed South Korean Kim Si-woo 6&5 in the round of 16 and saw off fellow American Kyle Stanley 2&1 in the quarter-finals at Austin Country Club.
If he beats Watson on Sunday, Thomas will play in the afternoon for the crown against the winner of the other semi-final between Swede Alex Noren and American Kevin Kisner.
‘’All I can do is go play the best I can,’’ Thomas said. ‘’(Bubba) has been showing some really good form. He’s a really great player. I have to hope he doesn’t have a hot day.’’
Watson, seeded 35th, edged Brian Harman 2&1 in the round of 16 and ousted Thailand’s Kiradech Aphibarnrat 5&3 in the quarter-finals.
