Show Notes
Discover how Jigger Thomson, the tallest tour pro in world golf, burst onto the scene at the 2021 Open Championship at Royal St. George’s having overcome childhood leukaemia to reach the DP World Tour. Hear how he has recently survived his most recent battle with blood cancer and now has his sights set on a return to top-flight golf. This is an inspiring story of faith, perseverance, and a remarkable love for golf, and not to be missed. You can join Jigger at the 2026 Mini Masters in aid of Leukaemia UK on Friday June 26th at Sunningdale Heath. Details below and in the podcast.
Key Topics:
His breakthrough performance at the 2021 Open Championship
Jigger Thomson’s early life and battle with leukaemia starting at age 7
The emotional journey through diagnosis, treatment, and remission
How golf helped with mental healing during illness
The significance of family support and community engagement
The role of faith and spirituality in overcoming hardship
His goals for returning to professional golf after his most recent battle with leukaemia
The upcoming Mini Masters fundraising event for Leukaemia UK
Record-breaking moments, including nine consecutive birdies
he ongoing fight for a cure and advances in leukaemia treatment
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introducing this week’s guest, Jonathan ‘Jigger’ Thomson
02:52 - Key moments from the 16th and 17th holes at the 149th Open
03:41 - How Jigger managed focus after the hole-in-one
04:50 - The crowd’s support and the walk down the 18th on Friday
05:53 - Walking in a surreal moment, feeling like part of a fairy tale
06:22 - Focus and mental resilience on the course during critical moments
07:41 - Jigger’s experience with backing from the crowd and his supporters
09:27 - Emotional walk on the 18th and the connection to past struggles
11:11 - Challenges on the Challenge Tour before the Open
13:45 - Family story and how childhood illness shaped his love for golf
15:01 - Recalling the diagnosis at age 7 and the emotional toll
16:02 - The return of leukemia in 2024 and its emotional impact
17:42 - The spiritual awakening and faith helping Jigger through adversity
18:53 - The physical toll of treatment and weight loss post-therapy
19:49 - The ongoing battle and future hopes for health and golf
22:07 - The importance of family, support, and faith in overcoming illness
32:14 - Physical condition after treatment and rebuilding strength
37:16 - Involvement with fundraising for leukaemia research (Mini Masters)
38:46 - Childhood influence and the importance of golf as a mental escape
40:33 - His rapid development in golf from age five onward
41:41 - Competitive amateur career highlights and early achievements
44:29 - Meaningful experiences with the England amateur team
45:28 - Fast start on the Euro Pro Tour and breakthrough victory
46:48 - Nearly winning in his first season on the DP World Tour
48:44 - Record for nine consecutive birdies
50:35 - His amateur successes and how they set the stage for professional growth
54:07 - Current health status, treatment, and golf goals for the future
57:12 - The confidence inherited from childhood perseverance and recent battles
58:50 - The desire to return to the Open and the DP World Tour
59:12 - Upcoming participation in the Mini Masters supporting leukaemia research
Resources & Links:
Leukaemia UK
Mini Masters Golf Event
Jigger Thomson on Instagram
Sounder Golf Gear – Use code POD20 for 20% off
Follow Dan Davies & RNGC on Instagram
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