No happy return for Spieth
Defending champion Jordan Spieth struggled to an uncharacteristic 76 in the first round of the Valspar Championship on Thursday.
The world number one was one of the hot favourites at Innesbrook this week, but already finds himself nine shots behind the early clubhouse leaders on five over par.
Spieth's front nine is where most of the disaster struck. His tee shots were wildly erratic and he struggled to find greens in regulation, leading to five bogeys in a seven-hole stretch. There was a birdie in there too, but it wasn't nearly enough to stop the rot.
Spieth's back nine wasn't much better – he failed to make another birdie and added another bogey for good measure.
The 22-year-old now has work ahead of him if he hopes to make the cut on Friday.
Latest
-
NewsJustin Thomas on end of Ralph Lauren deal: ‘They moved on so that’s what I’m doing as well’
Justin Thomas said he was upset by...
-
NewsMy last win feels a long time ago – Rory McIlroy aiming to start year on a high
McIlroy has not tasted victory since November 2019.
-
NewsRory McIlroy insists Justin Thomas will ‘try to be better’ after homophobic slur
World number three Thomas was heard using a derogatory word towards himself after missing a par putt in Hawaii.
-
NewsRory McIlroy sad to miss Conor McGregor fight
Rory McIlroy has been to UFC star Conor Mcgregor’s last three fights but will miss Saturday’s clash due to European Tour commitments.
-
NewsRory McIlroy backs Tiger Woods to make quick recovery from latest back surgery
McIlroy expects the American to be fit for the Masters in April.
-
NewsTiger Woods focusing on return to PGA Tour after undergoing fifth back operation
The 45-year-old will miss the Farmers Insurance Open and the Genesis Invitational.
-
NewsLee Westwood resumes bid for record-equalling 11th Ryder Cup appearance
The 47-year-old occupied one of the automatic places in the team before the golf was stopped due to Covid-19.
-
NewsSolheim Cup captain Catriona Matthew turns to Golfer’s CBD in pursuit of further success
Solheim Cup captain Catriona Matthew believes Golfer’s CBD could play a vital role in her future success.
-
NewsSponsor Ralph Lauren drops Justin Thomas following homophobic slur in Hawaii
The world number three uttered the derogatory word towards himself after missing a putt at Kapalua last weekend.
-
NewsBryson DeChambeau keeping brain relaxed to avoid repeat of Masters misery
DeChambeau said his brain went into overdrive at Augusta National.