J.J. Spaun just proved the U.S. team made a massive error leaving him out. While the captain picked fresh faces, Spaun went to England and won the biggest event on the DP World Tour. He shot a final-round 67 to claim the BMW PGA Championship by two strokes. This victory came after he injured his shoulder and missed the FedEx Cup final last month. The injury story was used to skip him, but his Sunday surge tells a different tale entirely.
Spaun’s Chip on the Shoulder
Spaun finished 10th in the points standings, just missing the automatic berth. He admitted the snub stung before he went to Europe. “It’s a bummer to miss out on the team events, whether it’s Ryder Cup or Presidents Cup,” he said. “Definitely carrying a bit of a chip on my shoulder this week. Just do my best and try to win.” That chip got him to 17-under, a record for the event. He birdied four of the last five holes to seal the deal. No one can say he wasn’t ready now.
His win puts him ahead of past majors winners like Rory McIlroy and Aaron Rai. He followed in the footsteps of Billy Horschel and Arnold Palmer as Americans to win this flagship event. “To add a trophy from one of our favorite places in the world would be a really good treat.” The U.S. captain ignored this hunger at his own risk.
Who Found Form and Who Slept
While Spaun fought for respect, Jacob Bridgeman chose to play to get ready. He posted a bogey-free 61 in Asheville to earn an A+ grade from Golfweek. “Guys are going to be lining up to play with him next week,” said Brendon de Jonge on the broadcast. Jackson Koivun also looked sharp with a T-5 finish and 21 under. These players are hitting the ground running in Chicago.
On the International side, Adam Scott is coming in hot after a T-2 finish in England. He will need that form to help his team. Corey Conners in the U.S. group was less impressive, posting a B- despite a final-round 64. “Always feels good to shoot a nice round and definitely feel like the game is heading in the right direction,” he said. “Excited, yeah, to get going next week.” The contrast is stark between those who played to find rhythm and those who sat on the bench.
Justin Thomas withdrew right before the event started without a clear reason. Meanwhile, Spaun’s win forces a hard look at the selection process. The team needs players who can close, and Spaun just proved he can. The International team might have the edge in momentum, but the U.S.
