10 Golf Lessons from Jordan Spieth: Insights from a Major Champion
Jordan Spieth and Dylan Dethier in an episode of Warming Up.
Credit: Darren Riehl
Introduction
Recently, I had the remarkable opportunity to interview Jordan Spieth during a 45-minute range session, which was both enlightening and profound. Spieth, a three-time major champion, shared insights that not only pertain to golf but also to life. What follows are ten invaluable lessons derived from my time with this elite athlete.
1. Be an Athlete and an Artist
Spieth emphasizes the importance of creativity in your warm-up routine. As he demonstrated with a 60-degree wedge, starting with varied half-swing shots helps him establish a comfortable feel. He advised mixing shot types: “They’re not all the same shot. I’ll work some different heights.” This artistic approach promotes better club-face control as he transitions to full swings.
2. Have Intention
Reflecting on his early days on the PGA Tour, Spieth highlighted the need for intent in every action. “I learned… to do everything with intention,” he said, contrasting his previous lax warm-up routine with the deliberate practices of seasoned professionals.
3. Practice Real Shots from the Course
Spieth advocates for practicing specific shots you might encounter during a round. “The par-3s, I’ll ask that yardage and hit that club,” he mentioned. Focusing on first-ball execution during practice helps reinforce the mental picture of the shots needed on course.
4. Work the Ball Towards the Hole (At Your Own Risk)
Although Spieth primarily plays a fade now, he acknowledges the value of being able to hit a draw. He advises being cautious; “Every time I’m hitting a draw or fade, I’m training myself that that ball cannot over-curve.” This strategy ensures he remains safe while pursuing aggressive pin positions.
5. Appreciate Your 7-Iron – It’s the Best Club
Spieth expressed a special affection for his 7-iron, considering it the most visually appealing and versatile club in his bag. With a typical distance of 175 to 190 yards, he prefers the 7-iron for finesse shots over the 6-iron when needing to stop the ball quickly.
6. Remember: Golf Can Work in Opposites
Spieth noted that achieving one’s desired shot often requires thinking differently. “You’ve gotta feel right to go left,” he explained. This counterintuitive concept is vital for golfers looking to refine their swings.
7. Making a Swing Change? Stress-Test It
As he works to integrate elements from both his past and current swings, Spieth stresses relaxed practice before competition. “I’ve moved from hitting most of the shots in a hitting bay to stress-testing shots in different conditions,” he said, highlighting the importance of preparation.
8. Find a Good Measuring Stick
For Spieth, that measuring stick is World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, with whom he frequently practices. Playing against top competitors provides valuable feedback on where he stands: “When I play with Scottie, I have a pretty good gauge on where I am compared to everyone else.”
9. Forgive the Past
Spieth’s thoughts on reflecting on past successes and struggles reveal a mature perspective on growth: “I can forgive the past… and just be forward-focused.” His ability to learn from experience while looking ahead is a powerful lesson for golfers and leaders alike.
10. Be a Goldfish
Quoting a mantra from Ted Lasso, Spieth advises: “Be a goldfish,” emphasizing the power of letting go of mistakes. While he’s known for his mental depth, this reminder serves as a gentle nudge to keep things simple and stay present.
Conclusion
My conversation with Jordan Spieth was enlightening, not just for golf enthusiasts but for anyone seeking to improve in their respective fields. From the importance of creativity to the value of intention, these lessons resonate well beyond the golf course. Jordan Spieth’s insights remind us that the journey of improvement is ongoing—both in sport and life.
