GLENEAGLES, Scotland -- Even at 21, the stress and workload of a FedEx Cup season caught up with Jordan Spieth. Down 10 pounds in weight and on antibiotics for sinus issues, Spieth closed out his second year of professional golf with a missed cut at the PGA Championship and a third-round 80 in the Tour Championship for a T-27 in the 29-man field.
"He was worn down physically and I think he was just drained by the burden of expectations," said swing coach Cameron McCormick.
But 21-year-olds bounce back quickly, and after a couple days of "doing nothing" and five days of work and nutrition at home in Dallas, the Ryder Cup rookie arrived at Gleneagles feeling like he's regained his weight, his energy and his form.
"I hope that I'm one of those guys that elevates his game for this event," Spieth said. "I feel great and I feel calm . . . I feel confident and I feel very jazzed to get going out here."
Spieth will need to elevate his game in a hurry. He is paired with fellow rookie Patrick Reed in a Friday morning fourballs match against European Ryder Cup hero Ian Poulter and the only Scottish player in the field, Stephen Gallacher. As the youngest player in the competition, Spieth brings the experience of playing the 2010 Junior Ryder Cup on the PGA Centenary Course at Gleneagles and a Presidents Cup last year at Muirfield Village.
"These kids are tough kids, both of them," said U.S. captain Tom Watson. "Patrick and Jordan, they are tough."
Photo: Getty Images
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