Max Homa Gets Choked Up After Crushing Runner-Up Finish at Genesis Invitational

Max Homa may not have pulled off the Genesis Invitational victory this time, but on Sunday showed that he has both the heart and the talent to return to Riviera for another thrilling run at the title. 

Homa, who finished two shots behind champion Jon Rahm, fought all day long in a dramatic back-and-forth battle with the now world No. 1. 

In his post-round interview, the 2021 Genesis Invitational winner carried his emotions on his sleeve while looking back at the roller coaster final stretch. 

“I did not have it off the tee today, but man, I fought. I really just wanted to push him,” Homa said. 

On the 18th hole, Homa’s chip to stay alive against Rahm ricocheted off the flagstick, and the result sent the Valencia, Calif., native into a state of shock. 

“I wanted to make him beat me and I think I did that. I let him off the hook on 13, but man, it was cool to see myself push him and not feel like I had 100 percent of my game. I played great everywhere but off the tee on that back nine, but it is what it is,” Homa said. 

Four of Homa’s six wins on the PGA Tour have occurred in the state of California. Looking back to his win at the Genesis in 2021 was the catalyst for Homa’s emotional reaction. 

Two years ago, due to COVID-19 restrictions, Homa’s family and friends were absent when he beat Tony Finau in a playoff at Riviera. At this week’s tournament, Homa had his entire support system on the property, waiting to greet him after the thrilling round. 

“It's amazing how the support—it hurts me not to—when I won in '21, nobody was here and it hurts me not to be able to do that with everyone here, my family and friends,” Homa said. 

“But I tried, man. Sorry, this tournament just means a lot to me. It's like an emotional release."

With the runner-up finish, Homa moves to No. 8 in the world, his career best ranking.