Godwin ObajeJustin Thomas Comments on Leeds United’s Premier League Return: ‘Unfortunate’ Timing Prevents Visit
Leeds United’s Premier League promotion continues to draw attention across the Atlantic, with professional golfer and part-owner Justin Thomas voicing both his support and frustration about not yet making a trip to Elland Road.
Thomas, a 16-time PGA Tour winner and one of several American investors in Leeds United, has praised the club’s progress but admitted scheduling conflicts have prevented him from experiencing a matchday in person.
The Whites’ return to the top flight under Daniel Farke has sparked renewed enthusiasm among the club’s American backers. The 49ers Enterprises-led ownership group has brought in a wave of celebrity involvement, including NBA player Larry Nance Jr. and Hollywood actor Will Ferrell, in a bid to boost the club’s global profile.
Thomas, speaking during The 153rd Open Championship, addressed the challenges he’s faced in making the trip to Yorkshire, particularly due to the Premier League schedule not aligning with his golfing calendar.
“I’d like to,” Thomas said. “Some of the guys are giving me a hard time, that of course, now they’re in the Premier League, now I’m going to make my way over.
“But it’s unfortunate that they’re not playing during kind of this — it would be great during the Scottish or The Open to either go before or stay after.
“Then last year with having a baby made the fall just a slightly tough ask on my end. We’ve wanted to, so hopefully we can make it work by the end of this year.”
Despite missing out on a visit so far, Thomas remains a keen supporter and appears eager to deepen his involvement as Leeds return to the Premier League spotlight. His comments echo a growing interest from American sports figures in English football, particularly with the 49ers’ ambitious plans for Leeds.
Meanwhile, fellow investor Larry Nance Jr. — forward for the Atlanta Hawks — has been notably vocal about his support, previously calling for the return of former manager Marcelo Bielsa. However, Nance will be disappointed not to see one of his favourite players, Junior Firpo, in action next season following the full-back’s recent free transfer to Real Betis.
While Firpo’s departure marks the end of a chapter, Leeds’ upward momentum continues to attract attention. The club’s promotion is being seen as a pivotal step in expanding their international reach, with the support of household names in American sport and entertainment only boosting the Whites’ global footprint.
Will Ferrell recently commented on the growing influence of American capital in English football, stating that the U.S. is “catching up,” hinting at even more names joining the Leeds project.
As Leeds prepare for their Premier League campaign, the enthusiasm from their transatlantic investors signals a bright future — both on the pitch and commercially — with hopes high that familiar faces like Justin Thomas will soon be spotted in the Elland Road stands.
Godwin Obaje
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