Jordan Spieth proved himself wrong over the weekend (Image: Getty)
Jordan Spieth defied his own doubts with an classy performance at the A returning Spieth initially explained “my expectations are low” at TPC Scottsdale.
The didn’t take home the trophy but secured a commendable T4 finish, a remarkable feat given his recent comeback from a five-month hiatus due to . Before teeing off in Phoenix, had set a modest outlook for himself.
“This is a really good test these few weeks, and my expectations are low,” he said.”I expect myself to make good swings, but as far as results, it’s hard to think that I should be expecting a lot after six months off essentially.”
“Having said that, I know where I was today, and I know that I can do better than I did today. If I can try to post a few scores at or better than today, then you never know, I start getting back in the mix and it becomes pretty fun and hopefully more consistent.”
Spieth’s top-five finish suggests he’s progressing faster than anticipated in his recovery journey. While Thomas Destry earned his first PGA championship title at the event, Spieth’s comeback story also garnered significant praise as he displayed his class after so much time out of the game.
The three-time major champ turned back the clock with an incredible display at the 17th, leaving himself just a 10-foot putt for birdie. Fellow pro Billy Horschel was among those astounded, taking to social media to express his admiration
Billy Horschel was full of priase for Jordan Spieth (Image: X: @TeeTimesPub)
“People do not understand how great of a 2nd shot @JordanSpieth played on 17,” he posted.”Just unreal and a very Spieth-like short game display.”
Even the legendary voice of golf, Jim Nantz, couldn’t help but be impressed, adding:”That’s the Spieth of old right there”. With only two holes left, Spieth trailed leader Destry by six strokes, though his creative play, particularly on the 11th hole where he impressively hit a left-handed shot out of trouble using a putter, generated excitement amongst fans.
Through all of his recent challenges, Spieth regards his performance in Arizona as a significant stride ahead. “It was a big progress week for me,” he said. “I didn’t feel like this was a one-off. It felt like this was just trending in the right direction.
“I’m pretty realistic with myself on that. Just trying to get a little bit better each time… I’d like to take it into a strong next week and then start working myself more consistently into contention.”