Jordan Spieth Out for the Remainder of 2024 Season Following Wrist Surgery
Renowned golfer Jordan Spieth has announced that he will be sidelined for the rest of the 2024 season after undergoing surgery on his left wrist. The decision marks a significant step in addressing an injury that has plagued him for several years.
The wrist issue initially surfaced in late 2017 or early 2018, but Spieth continued to compete despite the persistent discomfort. The severity of the problem escalated in May last year when a poolside incident with his son led to a severe wrist dislocation. This incident forced the three-time major winner to withdraw from the Byron Nelson tournament the following week.
Since February 2024, Spieth has experienced approximately 20 wrist dislocations, which deeply affected his performance throughout the season. "It was something that couldn't fix itself with rest, unfortunately. So that's why I ended up having to do this," said Spieth, explaining his decision to finally opt for surgery despite originally considering it back in July.
Spieth's wrist troubles have not only been a physical impediment but have also influenced his gameplay, particularly his iron play. Despite his best efforts to push through the pain and continue competing, the recurring dislocations proved too significant a barrier. This culminated in his almost withdrawing from the John Deere Classic due to another wrist dislocation.
“Like I said, I really didn't wanna make any excuses for myself the whole year because it wasn't hurting to hit the shot. And then I'd get into competition, and then I'd just bail. It was very strange. And so I guess it was a big enough sample size over a year, you'd think it frustrates you after a week or two, but for me, I just kind of kept thinking, 'You know, hey, this is just something mechanically I gotta fix,’” Spieth shared in a candid moment.
Looking Ahead to Recovery
Despite the arduous journey, Spieth remains hopeful about his recovery. He anticipates starting to hit balls again in November 2024, although participating in any events in December seems unlikely. "Playing any events in December feels like a stretch," Spieth admitted, as he sets his sights on a presumed return in 2025.
Spieth has also taken steps to prepare mentally for his recovery by speaking with various athletes who have undergone similar surgeries. "I talked to a lot of different players who've had similar operations and a lot of guys across different sports and they're like, 'Look, one day you'll wake up and, if you're patient enough, you do the right rehab, you listen to your docs and you take your time, there'll be one day where you wake up and you're like, 'Man, I just totally forgot that there was ever an issue.' So I look forward to that day," Spieth said.
During his conversations with medical professionals, Spieth found a sense of reassurance. "Anytime a guy who does, you know, 30,000 to 40,000 surgeries is excited about something, you know, that's reason for me to feel good about it, I guess," Spieth humorously remarked, showing confidence in the expertise guiding his recovery process.
For Spieth, the surgery represents a necessary intervention after years of managing the problem conservatively. He remains optimistic that this break will not only physically heal his wrist but also rejuvenate his competitive spirit. Reflecting on his journey, Spieth acknowledged, "I didn't get it fixed maybe then, and I kind of got into some bad habits, and then as I started to swing it better a few years ago it started to kind of act up again." Now, with surgery behind him, he is focused on a future where the injury no longer casts a shadow on his game.
Spieth’s fans and the golfing community at large will undoubtedly miss his presence on the tour for the remainder of the year. However, the collective hope is that this period of recovery will allow him to return stronger and more resilient for the 2025 season. With an unwavering determination and the support of his medical team, Spieth’s comeback will be eagerly anticipated by sports enthusiasts around the world.