J.J. Spaun: From Underdog to U.S. Open Champion

The Surreal Feeling of Victory

PORTRUSH, Northern Ireland — Just a month after clinching the trophy for the U.S. Open at Oakmont, J.J. Spaun finds himself in disbelief about his newfound status in the golf world. "It was really surreal when I won,” he admitted on the eve of the British Open. The enormity of his achievement still resonates with him daily, causing him to reflect on every moment, especially each time he gazes at the trophy.

A Journey of Self-Belief

When Spaun discusses his journey, his humility shines through. Despite his major victory, there’s an underlying challenge of self-assurance that persists. “I feel like I’ve had to prove to myself that I’m worthy of just playing on the PGA Tour and winning,” he shared. This sentiment reflects the competitive nature of professional golf, where the pursuit of excellence often requires grappling with self-doubt. He seems to understand the weight of expectations, especially when he considers the pressures of major tournaments.

A Moment Seized

What truly set Spaun apart during his U.S. Open triumph was his ability to capitalize on critical moments, particularly when he sank a remarkable birdie putt on the 72nd hole. “I took away a lot of confidence from my U.S. Open triumph,” he explained, recognizing that the mental fortitude gained from that victory has altered his approach to the game.

Competing with the Best

As he prepares for the 153rd British Open, Spaun finds himself grouped with 2024’s defending champion Xander Schauffele and the talented Jon Rahm. These pairings highlight the level of competition he now faces regularly, a space he has evolved into quite seamlessly. “Self-belief is key to pulling off a big event,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of confidence during pressure situations.

Rising Through the Ranks

Ranked No. 10 in the world, Spaun’s trajectory in golf has shifted dramatically. He feels he’s not only earned his place among the elite but has also begun to entertain the idea of representing the U.S. at the Ryder Cup. “I don’t think I’ve ever thought of myself in the Ryder Cup,” he reflects, a thought now seemingly tangible thanks to encouragement from his caddie and coach.

The Role of Support

Spaun’s journey is not one he undertakes alone. His caddie, Mark Carens, has played a pivotal role in fostering his self-belief. “Even when I was ranked outside the top 100, he would tell me he believed I was a top 10 player,” Spaun recalled. Such unwavering support has been crucial in helping Spaun not only navigate his career but also visualize a future that now includes the potential for even greater achievements.

Embracing the Future

As he stands on the brink of the British Open, Spaun carries the weight of expectations with a blend of excitement and apprehension. The idea that his dreams are morphing into reality might sound daunting, yet it is this very process of belief, manifested through the encouragement of those around him, that paints a promising picture of his future in golf.

His journey thus far illustrates a fundamental truth in sports: success is often a blend of talent, perseverance, and a network of unwavering support. As J.J. Spaun moves through this defining chapter of his career, fans and analysts alike will be keen to witness how his story continues to unfold.