GOLF’S GREATS SALUTE CHAMPION’S TRIUMPH
London, July 24: Golf ’s greatest names hailed Jordan Spieth’s dramatic triumph at the British Open at Royal Birkdale on Sunday as the new champion savoured his victory by swigging from the Claret Jug trophy.
Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player, the three surviving members of the ‘grand slam club’ who have won all four majors, saluted the 23-year-old American who will join them if he comes out on top at next month’s US PGA Championship.
“Jordan, we are all so happy watching you win the greatest trophy in golf,” nine-times major winner Player said in a social media address to the new champion.
“The example you showed to the young pros who will follow in your footsteps is one they will never forget. The courage, the patience, the fortitude. You are a family man, a gentleman and we love you,” the South African said.
Nicklaus, the record 18times major winner, paid tribute to Spieth’s “guts and determination” while Woods, who’s won 14 major titles, posted on Twitter: “What an incredible way to come back and win.”
Spieth’s friends Rickie Fowler and Justin Thomas posted pictures on Snapchat of him drinking from his new trophy.
Two years ago, he had also swigged from the Jug in celebration of Zach Johnson’s triumph at St Andrews — but this time Spieth was toasting himself.