It’s Not the Same’: Jordan Spieth, Who ‘Grew Up in the Wind,’ Strongly Rejects American Golf Courses Emulating Links in the UK

2023 season teed off at the iconic Royal Liverpool Golf Club in Hoylake, attracting top-tier golfers such as Rory McIlroy, Viktor Hovland, Jordan Spieth, and Justin Thomas. These golf luminaries are vying for the prestigious title, setting the stage for an electrifying competition.

Jordan Spieth, a beloved figure on the PGA Tour, is known for his actions that endear him to fans. However, it wasn’t his interaction with a fan that made headlines this time, but his perspective on American golf courses compared to their British counterparts.

During a post-round press conference on Thursday, Spieth was asked about his connection to the ongoing championship and his thoughts on the golf links. He pointed out that he “grew up in the wind,” which has provided him with the knowledge and skills required to navigate challenging windy courses effectively.

Spieth expressed his appreciation for courses like the Royal Liverpool, emphasizing the imaginative aspects around the greens. He highlighted the importance of using various clubs and techniques to tackle the distinctive challenges posed by these courses. He also praised the weather conditions that often characterize such venues, suggesting that his experience gives him a competitive edge.

When questioned about the potential for more golf links on the PGA Tour calendar, the former world number one was candid in his response, stating that while there are exceptional golf courses in the United States, they simply do not compare to their British counterparts. He cited the presence of “fescue grass” on UK golf courses, which sets them apart from American courses.

Interestingly, Spieth is not the only golfer to sing praises of UK golf links. Golf legend Tiger Woods, though absent from this year’s tournament, won at Hoylake in 2006. In an interview with TaylorMade, Woods shared his perspective on what makes UK links special. He emphasized the importance of creativity and using the ground instead of hitting the ball high. Woods also highlighted the unique nature of links golf, where keeping the ball low and executing putts from short distances are key skills.