Greats salute Spieth’s Open triumph
Print Edition
GOLF’S greatest names hailed Jordan Spieth’s dramatic triumph at the British Open at Royal Birkdale on Sunday as the new champion savored his victory by swigging from the Claret Jug trophy.
Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player, the three surviving members of the ‘grand slam club’ who have won all four majors, saluted the 23-year-old who will join them if he comes out on top at next month’s US PGA Championship.
“Jordan, we are all so happy watching you win the greatest trophy in golf,” nine-time major winner Player said in a social media address to the new champion.
“The example you showed to the young pros who will follow in your footsteps is one they will never forget. The courage, the patience, the fortitude. You are a family man, a gentleman and we love you,” the South African said.
Nicklaus, the record 18-time major winner, paid tribute to Spieth’s “guts and determination” while Woods, who’s won 14 major titles, posted on Twitter: “What an incredible way to come back and win.”
Few would argue with that after Spieth played the final five holes in 5-under-par to see off the challenge of runner-up and compatriot Matt Kuchar and secure his third major to set alongside his 2015 Masters and US Open triumphs.
Spieth’s friends Rickie Fowler and Justin Thomas posted pictures on Snapchat of him drinking from his new trophy.
Two years ago, he had also swigged from the Jug in celebration of Zach Johnson’s triumph at St Andrews — but this time Spieth was toasting himself.
Asked by Thomas how drinking from the trophy tasted, Spieth turned to the camera, lowered the Jug and said: “Fantastic”. His celebrations will probably last until Thursday, when he turns 24.
There would be more good news for him today when the new world rankings will see him rise a place to No. 2 behind fellow American Dustin Johnson on the back of his latest triumph.
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