Spieth expecting McIlroy backlash
Jordan Spieth is expecting Rory McIlroy to mount a strong challenge for the world number one spot in 2016.
It was a combination of results and luck that saw Spieth take the number one ranking from the Northern Irishman in August.
McIlroy's injury saw him miss nine weeks of golf, including the Open Championship and WGC – Bridgestone Invitational. In the meantime, Spieth was notching up victories, with his win at the Tour Championship sealing the world number one spot and his maiden FedEx Cup title.
Nonetheless, McIlroy did bounce back to win the European Tour season finale at the DP World Tour Championship and with it the Race to Dubai title.
This, according to Spieth, is what makes him a dangerous player for the rest of the 2016 season.
"In a season that he considered lost, he still came back and ended up winning the Race To Dubai and that proves what a player he is," the 22-year-old is quoted as saying by the Telegraph.
"I'm sure there are very few players who have been working harder than he is to make this season his best season yet – and that is scary. Hopefully, I can prevent that to an extent."
In terms of his own season, Spieth has three specific goals…and not all of them are simply personal glory.
"I would like to contend in a couple of majors on Sunday and I’d like to win at least one of them," continued the two-time major winner.
"I'd also like to represent the United States in not only the Olympics but also the Ryder Cup. It would be great to get a couple of wins, not only for myself but for my country."
McIlroy and Spieth will face off at the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship this week, with the duo likely to be paired for the opening two rounds.
Latest
-
NewsTyrell Hatton: It’s much ado about a hoodie
Tyrell Hatton his happy to be turning heads with his hoodie, which has made unexpected waves.
-
NewsRory McIlroy acknowledges dry spell ahead of Zozo Championship
Rory McIlroy sees this weeks’ Zozo Championship as an opportunity to end his win drought and gain some confidence.
-
NewsTiger Woods feeling in form as he returns to Sherwood in build-up to Masters
The 44-year-old is happy with his game as Masters season begins in earnest.
-
NewsJason Kokrak: I couldn’t be happier
Jason Kokrak was beaming from ear to ear having finally earned his maiden PGA Tour title on Sunday.
-
NewsSpain’s Adrian Otaegui finishes with a flourish to win Scottish Championship
The Spaniard now has a professional victory in three different formats of the game.
-
NewsThe Rise of Golf: Increasing Popularity of Golf in the US
Golf is played across the US and it’s gaining popularity amongst many Americans.
-
NewsMatt Wallace reaping rewards from taking pressure off his performances
There are seven British players in the top ten at Fairmont St Andrews.
-
The 19th HoleWATCH: Golf cameraman falls on live TV!
A cameraman took an unexpected tumble on live TV during the opening round of golf’s Scottish Championship!
-
-
NewsWATCH: Martin Laird emotional after breaking seven-year title drought
Martin Laird gets a little bit choked up as he savours his first win in seven years.