Spieth Admits Golf Peers Criticized His Exemptions

Jordan Spieth recently admitted that he has faced criticism from his peers regarding the sponsor exemptions he received for the 2025 golf season. Spieth was granted five such exemptions, allowing him to compete in multiple Signature events, a situation that drew significant heat from fans and fellow players alike. He expressed frustration over the criticism, noting that he was "catching strays" from people he had good relationships with, and clarified that his entries were not bought.

Despite the controversy, Spieth's popularity has historically made him a valuable choice for sponsors, as he often draws more viewership than many other players. His ranking fifth in the 2024 Player Impact Program further underscores his marketability. Spieth stated that he is not doing anything differently than other players and expressed a desire to avoid relying on exemptions, aiming instead to qualify automatically for events whenever possible.