Max Homa endured a mixed week at the 2025 John Deere Classic and came agonizingly close to winning the title. Homa was well on course to secure the title but had to settle for a tied fifth place after he missed a few putts. The 34-year-old then got an unusual demand from a disappointed fan after the tournament.
Fans Demands Refund of Bet Because Homa “Can’t Putt Under Pressure”
Homa’s fifth place at the John Deere Classic saw him earn $278,250 for his efforts. But his final position could have been much better as he was just one shot behind the leader going into the last day. At first, it looked like Homa was going to secure his seventh PGA Tour title at TPC Deere Run after the first four holes he played on Sunday, racing into a 2-stroke lead against the field. However, things went south for the six-time PGA Tour winner afterward.
After playing well for most of the tournament, he added more bogeys and two birdies to his total to bring his score down to 16-under 268, effectively ending his hopes of claiming the title. He ended two strokes behind the champion, Brian Campbell.
Soon after the tournament, a fan identified as Carl Watkins sent him a Venmo request for the $1,900 bet that he had placed on him to win the 2025 John Deere Classic. Watkins added a message to his request that read: “Bc you can’t putt under pressure,” underneath it. Homa shared a screenshot of the request on Instagram and responded with a simple message:
“Gamble like a big boy Carl and take your lumps like the rest of us.”
Homa’s Performance Offers Cause For Optimism Despite Missed Putts
Despite the distraction, Homa had reasons to stay positive. His performance at the John Deere Classic marked his best finish since last year’s Masters. After a tough few months on tour, he showed signs that his game is getting back on track.
Homa had no trouble finding the greens during the tournament. In fact, he finished second in greens in regulation for the entire event. The 34-year-old was also solid off the tee, ranking 6th in strokes gained off the tee and 10th in average driving distance. But as Watkins pointed out, it was his putting that let him down. Homa missed three easy putts on the 8th, 17th, and 18th holes, all from inside 10 feet.
The American could have ended his long wait for a win if he had made those. Instead, the drought continues. Fans may not see him back in action anytime soon, as Homa will not be playing in the 2025 Genesis Scottish Open and could miss the Open Championship as well.
Main Photo Credit: © Marc Lebryk-Imagn Images
