Just a few days after winning his first major at Oakmont, J.J. Spaun spoke to the media at the Travelers Championship, still overwhelmed by the experience. “It’s been crazy, but also a lot of fun,” admitted the Californian. His victory at the US Open not only opened the doors to major US media outlets – with appearances on the Today Show and greetings from figures like George Lopez and Mookie Betts – but also catapulted him to third place in the Ryder Cup standings.
Spaun fondly recalled his connection with the tournament in Cromwell, where in 2018, newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, he won the ‘Umbrella Challenge’ and donated his prize to the JDRF foundation, which initiated a close relationship with Andy Bessette, an executive at Travelers: “It was a very special moment. Andy was moved to learn of my choice and has been by my side in this process ever since.”
His story is also one of a relentless fighter. On the verge of leaving professional golf in 2021, Spaun managed to keep his card after finishing second in Boise during the Korn Ferry Tour finals. “I’ve been on the ropes many times, but I’ve always found a way to fight. As that Confucius quote says: ‘Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall,'” he recalled emotionally.
On the technical side, the champion highlighted the impact of his new LAB putter, with which he has found a consistency he previously lacked. “I’m not a great putter statistically, but this putter has given me confidence. I put it in play at the Sony Open and almost won there. It’s been key this season,” he explained.
Despite the success, Spaun remains grounded. “I still haven’t been able to sit on my sofa with the trophy next to me watching SportsCenter. I’d like to enjoy it that way,” he confessed with a laugh. For now, he continues to live “day by day,” although he acknowledges that he will try to savour the triumph next week.
Amidst his intense schedule of commitments and emotions, the player is aware of what he has achieved. “I’m super grateful for having won the tournament and for experiencing this. It’s something I’ll obviously never forget in my life. I guess I’m now part of history,” he said with a smile of someone who still hasn’t fully grasped his feat.
The victory at Oakmont was as unexpected as it was deserved. “After being five over par in the first six holes, I thought I was only aiming for a top 10,” he admitted. But after a rain delay, he managed to reconnect. “I played so well in those final holes that I didn’t feel nervous. I knew I could do it. It was the shot of the tournament,” he said about his driver on the 17th. Today, Spaun is not only a US Open champion. He is an example of perseverance and self-belief.
