J.J. Spaun’s 64-foot birdie putt on Sunday cemented his place as the new U.S. Open champion, but his journey to this moment is a testament to resilience and perseverance. The golfer’s career has been marked by setbacks, including a Type 1 diabetes diagnosis and multiple health issues, which ultimately led to him losing his PGA Tour card in 2021.
Despite these challenges, Spaun continued to push forward, slowly climbing the rankings from 584th place to No. 8. His approach was simple: focus on showing up for himself, rather than comparing himself to others. This mindset helped him stay confident and composed under pressure.
During Sunday’s tournament, Spaun faced numerous obstacles, including a rough start and a rain delay that left him five-over par through six holes. However, he refused to give up, instead choosing to “dig deep” and battle back from his struggles. His decision paid off, as he birdied the 18th hole to secure his victory.
Spaun’s story offers valuable lessons for anyone facing adversity. By learning to harness their nerves and focus on the present moment, individuals can overcome even the most daunting challenges. As Spaun himself said, “I like being uncomfortable,” and it was this mindset that helped him thrive under pressure. His U.S. Open victory is a reminder that inspiration can come from anywhere, and with determination and perseverance, anything is possible.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6429890/2025/06/17/jj-spaun-us-open-win-lessons