Jordan Spieth withdraws from FedEx cup playoff events

Jordan Spieth ended his 2024 season prematurely after participating in only one FedEx Cup playoff event, as he prepares for surgery on his troubled left wrist. The wrist injury, which has plagued Spieth for the past 16 months, has been a significant concern. After finishing his round with a double bogey and a final score of 74, Spieth expressed his need for immediate surgical intervention.

The injury involves a torn sheath in his left wrist that is responsible for holding the tendon in place. This issue first emerged just a week before the 2023 PGA Championship. Despite trying various non-surgical treatments, Spieth’s condition did not improve, leaving him uncertain about the severity and impact of the injury on his performance.

Spieth acknowledged the challenge of the recovery process and emphasized that he would take his time to heal properly, as there is no urgency to rush back into competition. His current situation contrasts sharply with his past performances, including his struggles to advance in the FedEx Cup playoffs. He failed to progress beyond the first round in this year’s postseason, finishing 68th in the rankings, which fell short of the top 10 required to move forward.

Earlier in the season, Spieth had shown promise with five top-six finishes before his wrist injury. However, his performance has been inconsistent since, with only four additional top-six finishes and a sixth-place showing at the Hero World Challenge. He entered the 2024 season ranked 43rd in the world, a significant drop from his No. 10 position when the injury first occurred. This year, he missed the cut in eight out of 21 tournaments.

Spieth reflected on the frustrating nature of the season, acknowledging the impact of the injury on his performance and admitting that it was a challenging year both professionally and personally. Despite the setbacks, Spieth remains hopeful that addressing the injury will provide clarity and allow him to return stronger. He expressed uncertainty and apprehension about the surgery but is optimistic about the potential for recovery.

Adding to his frustration was the fact that despite a strong performance in driving, ranking 13th in that statistical category, his overall game was hindered by the wrist issue. Spieth noted that any impact involving the ground exacerbated his condition.

Looking ahead, Spieth has yet to determine the exact timing of his surgery and his subsequent plans. He is not eligible for The Sentry at Kapalua to start the 2025 season and may request an exemption for the Hero World Challenge in December, depending on his recovery. Meanwhile, he is navigating the demands of family life, with two young children making the recovery process more challenging.

Spieth also took on a significant role by joining the PGA Tour board after Rory McIlroy’s resignation last November, around the time the tour sought investment from Saudi backers and brought on Strategic Sports Group as an investor. Despite these additional responsibilities, Spieth remains focused on his health and future return to competitive golf.