Jordan Spieth withdrew from the Travelers Championship due to a neck injury, marking his first withdrawal in 297 PGA Tour starts. The injury occurred in the early rounds of the event, ultimately forcing Spieth to end his participation prematurely.
Details Surrounding Spieth’s Injury and Withdrawal
Video footage captured Spieth wincing in pain after a swing during the tournament. Reports from George Savaricas of the Golf Channel, cited by Yahoo Sports, confirm that Spieth injured his neck while warming up on the driving range before the first round. Despite the injury, Spieth chose to continue playing and was five over par through the first 12 holes.
After reaching the 13th hole, Spieth told his caddie, Michael Greller,
“I’m done. Can’t do it. I’m sorry.”
He then contacted a rules official to inquire about the withdrawal process, saying,
“How’s this work?”
Spieth subsequently left the course via golf cart and returned to the clubhouse. Due to the withdrawal, he will receive last-place prize money and will not earn FedEx Cup points for this event.
Background on Spieth’s Career and Recent Performances
This season, Spieth has sought his first PGA Tour victory since April 2022. The former University of Texas standout has shown strong form, finishing tied for fourth at both the Waste Management Phoenix Open and The CJ Cup Byron Nelson. At the U.S. Open last week, Spieth placed tied for 23rd, shooting eight over par.
Throughout his career, Spieth has won 13 PGA Tour events, including three major championships: the Masters and U.S. Open in 2015, and The Open Championship in 2017. His best finish at the PGA Championship was second place in 2015.
Insights into Spieth’s Condition and Preparations
Following his challenging U.S. Open, Spieth shared some reflections with reporters before the Travelers Championship. He recounted,
“We were waiting on the Scheffler’s to come over here and, he [Scottie Scheffler] was after the delay, so I went to Buffalo Wild Wings with Michael [Greller, Spieth’s caddie]. And I didn’t exactly eat or drink the way I normally do there.”
Spieth added,
“Most of the time it’s very, very good. But sometimes post-U.S. Open, I just kind of needed to throw a few back. And then by yesterday, I was good. I’m still young enough that it doesn’t really bother me the next day.”
Implications for Spieth’s Season and Next Steps
Spieth’s withdrawal due to injury highlights the physical challenges athletes face on tour, especially during tightly scheduled events. His decision shows caution about long-term health over immediate competition. As Spieth recovers, fans and analysts will closely watch his return in upcoming PGA Tour events, hoping he can regain full fitness and continue competing at a high level.