ETOBICOKE, ONTARIO - JUNE 11: Justin Thomas of the United States selects a club from his bag on the 18th hole during the third round of the RBC Canadian Open at St. George's Golf and Country Club on June 11, 2022 in Etobicoke, Ontario.

Thomas, McIlroy praise Canadian Open atmosphere: Feels 'like a major'

4 years ago

Vaughn Ridley / Getty Images Sport / Getty

In its long-awaited return to the PGA TOUR, the Canadian Open has not disappointed after 54 holes.

Following his 7-under 63 on Saturday, two-time PGA Championship winner Justin Thomas compared Canada's lone TOUR event to one of men's golf's big four.

"It felt like a major a little bit out there," Thomas said, recalling a conversation he'd had with playing partners Rory McIlroy and Canadian Corey Conners the day before, according to ASAP Sports.

"I knew, obviously, very passionate sports fans up in this part of the world, and then having two years away from this tournament, I knew they were going to be ready to go this year," Thomas added.

Thomas isn't the only one enjoying the atmosphere this week at St. George's Golf and Country Club in Etobicoke, Ontario, as McIlroy shared similar thoughts.

"It's unbelievable. ... I can't remember the last time I played in an atmosphere like that. It was really special, "McIlroy said.

McIlroy is the event's defending champion, winning it with a final-round 61 in 2019 at Hamilton Golf and Country Club. Spectators surrounded McIlroy during his round Saturday, chanting his name and banging on the boards at the traditional rink hole.

It's getting LOUD 🔊

An incredible atmosphere for @McIlroyRory at "The Rink" @RBCCanadianOpen. pic.twitter.com/aZOyuOfexW
— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) June 11, 2022

"I'm loaded with loonies this week," said McIlroy earlier in the week when asked if he would be marking his ball with the Canadian coin like he did en route to the 61 in 2019.

The third player in Sunday's final group, Tony Finau, has his own special connection to Canada despite hailing from Utah.

"It's nice to be back in Canada," said Finau after firing an 8-under 62 on Saturday. "I drove throughout this country in 2013 playing the PGA Tour Canada and have (a) lot of great, fond memories here."

Finau played in eight events that season, and, as a result, said playing this week feels "almost like a home game."

With Finau and McIlroy tied for the lead at 11-under, and Thomas close behind in a group at 9-under, all three are in a position to win the 2022 Canadian Open on Sunday. They'll tee off in a group together at 12:51 p.m. ET.