The 17-year-old, well supported by family and friends at Abu Dhabi Golf Club, said: “I didn’t really surprise myself. The course wasn’t feeling too long. I thought it would be longer. I still had a few wedges. I was very happy with it.”

Looking ahead to the second round on Friday, Thomas added: “I’ll go out and try go low tomorrow with the same game plan. It’s a bit intimidating but I’ve got so many family and familiar faces so I’m feeling at home.”