I usually do that. Tried just clicking and going to the thread, then going back and it worked as expected for me. I would be curious to see what address it goes to in the middle.I never need to use return, always open it in a new tab. I think It works on all browsers.
From Today's Posts, right click on the Thread and click "Open link in new tab" or hold down the control key and click the thread.
That also works on pictures and links.