At Glance
‣ Jordan Spieth, inspired by Scottie Scheffler’s rise in golf, is motivated to improve his own game, using a hint of jealousy as inspiration.
‣ Spieth acknowledges Scheffler’s success and talent, emphasizing his personal connection and admiration for Scheffler, who he considers a better person than a player.
‣ Despite the competitive nature of their relationship, Spieth is optimistic about his future in golf, believing in his potential to reach his peak performance and compete alongside Scheffler.
"I've got plenty of runway to be able to get back."
@JordanSpieth speaks on being inspired by Scottie Scheffler.— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR)
Scottie Scheffler’s meteoric rise in the golfing world has been something to behold. And Jordan Spieth? He’s had a front-row seat to the whole show. Living in Dallas, these two have hit the links together more times than they can count. But, oh, it’s a bit of a double-edged sword for Spieth.
Once upon a time, Spieth was the golden boy of golf, snagging three major championships like it was nothing. Lately, though, he’s hit a bit of a rough patch. Meanwhile, Scheffler’s just been climbing higher and higher, now sitting pretty at the top, seemingly untouchable.
While Scheffler’s off doing the family thing, prepping for a new baby and all, Spieth’s taking center stage at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson back in their Texas stomping grounds. He’s on a mission to rediscover that magic touch of his. At 30, Spieth’s seen Scheffler transform from a golfing buddy into the sport’s leading light. Sure, he’s thrilled for his friend – but can’t help feeling a twinge of jealousy. That envy? It’s fueling his fire.
“I’ve known Scottie since he was a kid,” Spieth shared. He’s quick to add, “He’s even better as a person than he is a golfer, if you can believe that.” Their shared history, stretching back to their University of Texas days, makes Scheffler’s success all the sweeter for Spieth. But it’s also a new kind of motivation. “For the first time, I’m looking at someone younger and thinking, ‘I gotta step up my game.'”
Playing rounds with Scheffler in Dallas keeps Spieth on his toes. Trying to outdo him on their home turf? It’s a constant battle. “When he’s outplaying me, it’s the worst,” Spieth admits. There was a time when the tables were turned, and he misses that.
Oh, and don’t forget to check out the Golf Monthly newsletter. It’s your ticket to all the latest in the golf world. Spieth’s confident, though. He’s convinced he’s not far from getting his groove back. “The situation’s flipped, but I’m ready,” he declares. “I’ve got what it takes to rise again.”
“It’s all on me,” he continues. His belief in his potential is unwavering. “My ceiling’s as high as anyone’s.” There are parts of his game that are spot on and others that need a bit of work. But get those in line, and he and Scheffler could be going head-to-head on the regular.
So, yeah, the dynamic’s changed. Spieth’s looking up at Scheffler now, but he’s not out of the race. Not by a long shot. He’s gearing up to make a comeback, inspired by his friend’s success. “We could go on runs together, I guess,” he muses, already picturing the leaderboard.
