JJ Spaun: How Words of Wisdom from Jack Nicklaus Led to US Open Victory

By CALUM CROWE
Published: July 9, 2025 | Updated: July 9, 2025

The landscape of golf can change dramatically in just one tournament, and for JJ Spaun, that change came at the historic Oakmont Country Club during the US Open. With a breathtaking performance, Spaun secured his first major title, an achievement that will be etched in the annals of golf history. However, the road to this incredible victory was paved with inspiration – notably, a pep talk from one of the game’s greatest, Jack Nicklaus.

A Memorable Finish at Oakmont

On a brisk day at Oakmont, Spaun displayed nerves of steel as he navigated one of the toughest courses in the world. His remarkable birdie-birdie finish had spectators and players alike on the edge of their seats. Spaun’s dramatic 60-foot putt on the last green not only sealed his victory but also made him the only player to finish under par in a field that struggled with the challenging conditions.

The Helping Hand of a Legend

As Spaun reflects on his transformative experience, he credits a letter from golfing icon Jack Nicklaus, affectionately known as the "Golden Bear." The 84-year-old legend reached out to Spaun following his impressive run at the US Open. "Receiving that letter was surreal. Jack Nicklaus is an icon, and to know he was rooting for me made all the difference," Spaun said.

The Power of Encouragement

The day before winning at Oakmont, Spaun had a fleeting conversation with Nicklaus during the Memorial Tournament. "I told him, ‘It would be nice to win,’" Spaun recalled. To which Nicklaus responded, "You keep knocking on that door; you’re going to knock one down." Those words resonated deeply with Spaun, serving as a mantra that propelled him to his historic win the following week.

A Newfound Respect

Since claiming the US Open championship, Spaun has experienced an influx of support and recognition from his peers. "As a major champion, it’s nice to earn that respect," he stated, reflecting on how the victory has changed his standing in the golf community. It’s a well-deserved acknowledgment, earned through perseverance and hard work.

Bridging Friendships in Competition

Despite being a fierce competitor on the golf course, Spaun maintains friendly relations with fellow golfers, including Scotland’s Bob MacIntyre. The two shared a heartfelt bond after an intense showdown at the US Open, and Spaun has even communicated with MacIntyre’s manager, Iain Stoddart, who acknowledged the nature of competition. Spaun’s victory over MacIntyre was akin to Rory McIlroy’s earlier triumphs, reinforcing the idea that every competitor has their moment.

The Calm Before the Next Challenge

As Spaun prepares to participate in the Genesis Scottish Open in East Lothian, he carries both the weight of his recent achievement and the excitement of future possibilities. “I’m just looking to build on this success,” he remarked, embracing the challenges that lay ahead.

The True Spirit of Golf

Ultimately, Spaun’s victory is a testament to the spirit of golf. It transcends mere competition; it’s about community, support, and mutual respect among golfers. “What I love about golf is that it brings people together,” Spaun explains, highlighting the positive relationships that develop on the tour.

The Legacy Continues

This victory at Oakmont not only cements Spaun’s name in the history books but also adds another layer to Jack Nicklaus’s legacy as a mentor. His encouragement helped usher in a new champion, a testament to the profound impact experienced players can have on newcomers.

A Bright Future Awaits

Looking ahead, it’s clear that this is just the beginning for JJ Spaun. Armed with newfound confidence and the backing of legends like Nicklaus, there’s no telling how far he can go in the world of golf. The major title is a gateway, opening doors to future success and greater achievements.

In essence, Spaun’s journey reiterates that success in sports, as in life, is often bolstered by words of encouragement and the strength of community. As he descends from the adrenaline of the US Open, all eyes will be on Spaun as he tees off at the Genesis Scottish Open and beyond, eager to witness his next chapter unfold.