Max Homa sends message to those 'overly focused' with the Genesis Invitational amid LA wildfires

PGA Tour superstar Max Homa has delivered a strong message to those prioritizing Tiger Woods' Genesis Invitational over the ongoing wildfires in Southern California. The tournament was scheduled to be held from February 13 to 16 at the Riviera Country Club, which is currently in the mandatory evacuation zone under threats of the fire spreading.

Speaking during TGL's post-round press conference, Homa and Woods reflected on the widespread destruction and its impact. While the tragedy hit both the Southern California natives close to home, the former stated that "it seems silly" for golf enthusiasts to focus on the Genesis Invitational operations rather than aiding the community.

"I've had a lot of people ask me about the golf tournament. No offense to Tiger and TGR and Genesis, but it seems silly at the moment to be overly focused on a golf tournament when people are still continuing to have this go on and living in a bit of fear in So Cal. It's been really tough, but again, I'm just very happy that a lot of people have gotten out, been safe," Max Homa stated (via ASAP Sports).

Tiger Woods, whose TGR Foundation hosts the Genesis Invitational at the Riviera Country Club annually, shared similar sentiments. Homa revealed he is devastated, looking at places he knows so well destroyed. Fortunately, the Jupiter Links Golf Club player's family and dear friends remain safe despite their homes being impacted by the fires.

"I know that these natural disasters happen far too often. However, this was the first one I can remember where every news clip, every time someone mentioned an area, I could picture it so well. It was very eerie. Fortunately all my friends and family are safe. Houses not necessarily still all intact, but it was nice to be able to talk to quite a few people, and I think their perspective has been amazing about, hey, we're safe, and that's what matters most," Max Homa added.

Homa concluded his press conference by praising the Los Angeles Fire Department and other first responders for their bravery and commitment to protecting Southern California and its residents. He aimed to stress the importance of maintaining a perspective during tough times and focusing on humanity.

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How did Max Homa and Jupiter Links GC fare on their TGL debut?

Jupiter Links Golf Club, comprising Max Homa, Tiger Woods, and Kevin Kisner, suffered a 12 to 1 loss against Los Angeles Golf Club while their teammate Tom Kim sat out the match. Despite losing on their TGL debut, all players had their spirits up high.

Both teams tied on the first, fifth, seventh, tenth, and twelfth holes. Jupiter Links earned their sole point on the par 4 sixth hole, which is dubbed as Bluebonnet, aided by Homa's 307-yard long drive. The team will tee it up next on January 27 at 6:30 PM EST against Rory McIlroy's Boston Common Golf Club.