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4d ago

J.J. Spaun Says McIlroy’s Masters Par 3 Joke Still Stings Ahead of Scottish Open

The U.S. Open champion says Rory McIlroy’s Masters Par 3 Contest quip still hurts as he competes at the Genesis Scottish Open on a wave of peer respect.

Rory McIlroy's taunt of JJ Spaun during the Masters' Par 3 playoff contest leaves Shane Lowry in Disbelief. (Image Collage | Getty Images)
NORTH BERWICK, SCOTLAND - JULY 09: J. J. Spaun of the United States looks on during the pro-am prior to the Genesis Scottish Open 2025 at The Renaissance Club on July 09, 2025 in North Berwick, Scotland. (Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images)
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Overview

  • Spaun admitted Rory McIlroy’s “Better get the club right this time” barb reopened the pain of his Players Championship playoff loss.
  • He enters the Genesis Scottish Open ranked No. 8 in the world after his dramatic 65-foot birdie-birdie finish at the U.S. Open.
  • Spaun has noticed a “complete 180” in how fellow professionals engage with him since his first major victory at Oakmont.
  • Jack Nicklaus upheld his 30-year tradition by sending Spaun a handwritten congratulatory note following the U.S. Open triumph.
  • Embracing his new spotlight, Spaun has welcomed fan and celebrity attention—recalling gifts like a signed Tony Hawk skateboard and saying he will never tire of the praise.