Why Jordan Spieth deserves his Tiger Woods exemption, despite the fan backlash

Jordan Spieth was invited to play in the Hero World Challenge, and here’s why he deserves it

Back in his prime, Spieth was must-see TV. Unlike Scottie Scheffler, who dominated with a calm precision, Spieth brought chaos to the course—scrambling for trick shots and miraculous birdies that had crowds buzzing.

Between 2015 and 2017, he overcame his erratic style with moments of brilliance that led him to win The Masters, the US Open, and The Open Championship. Of course, that same approach sometimes backfired—most notably when he let a five-shot lead slip away on the back nine at Augusta in 2016.

Even so, Spieth’s unpredictability kept fans glued to every shot. That hasn’t changed. He still draws attention wherever he plays, which is why the PGA Tour keeps giving him spots in their top events.

Winning multiple majors changes everything. When Spieth took both The Masters and US Open titles in 2015, he didn’t just raise trophies—he joined an elite club. That kind of achievement carries weight long after the wins themselves.

And while those wins are nearly a decade old now, they’ve given him a place among golf’s biggest names—and a good reason why opportunities keep coming his way. It’s not about playing favourites; it’s about business.

In reality, it helps the PGA Tour to have its biggest names in action—regardless of how they’re playing at the moment. You can’t criticise top players for skipping events and then turn around and complain when someone like Spieth gets an invite.

Even though there aren’t any FedEx Cup points on offer at Hero World Challenge for this tournament spot doesn’t give him any edge over others; but even if there were points involved; winning big should come with some perks.

Where Jordan Spieth needs to improve in 2026

Spieth has always been known for his short game, but his best stretches have come when his iron play was dialled in.

During his two-major season in 2015, he gained 0.74 strokes per round on approach, and that number jumped to 1.15 during the 2017 season.

Even in the absence of strong putting performances, he’s found ways to win when the irons are working. His last victory came at the 2022 RBC Heritage, where despite losing strokes on the greens, his approach play carried him through a playoff win over Patrick Cantlay.

Spieth’s iron play hasn’t been as sharp recently, though. He lost strokes on approach throughout the year and often found himself having to scramble from tough spots.

If he’s going to get back to contending at majors again, tightening up that part of his game will be key.