Rory McIlroy Claims Jordan Spieth Has a ‘Different’ Problem as He Tries to Complete the Career Grand Slam
Rory McIlroy Claims Jordan Spieth Has a ‘Different’ Problem as He Tries to Complete the Career Grand Slam
As the golfing world turns its attention to the 2025 PGA Championship, the spotlight remains firmly on Jordan Spieth, who continues his pursuit of the career Grand Slam. With three major titles to his name — the Masters (2015), U.S. Open (2015), and The Open Championship (2017) — Spieth needs only the PGA Championship to join the elite club of five players who have achieved the Grand Slam. However, according to Rory McIlroy, Spieth’s road to history is complicated by a “different” kind of challenge than his own.
Speaking ahead of this year’s event, McIlroy, who is himself chasing the Masters to complete his Grand Slam, offered insight into how Spieth’s situation contrasts with his.
“We’re both going after that last leg, but I think Jordan’s problem is different than mine,” McIlroy told reporters. “For me, it’s about conquering a single course — Augusta National. For him, it’s about a rotating set of courses that often don’t suit his game.”
McIlroy elaborated on the nuances of Spieth’s challenge, noting that the PGA Championship’s course selection in recent years has favored players with power off the tee and a more aggressive style — traits that haven’t always aligned with Spieth’s strengths.
“The PGA now sets up like a U.S. Open at times,” McIlroy said. “Long, tough setups where distance gives you a big edge. Jordan is one of the best in the world around the greens and with his approach play, but these courses are asking for something different.”
The Northern Irishman, who has faced intense pressure each April at Augusta, sympathized with the mental burden Spieth must be carrying.
“I know the feeling of having that one missing piece,” McIlroy admitted. “Every year you get one shot, and the spotlight gets hotter. But his case is even trickier because the target keeps moving. Every PGA is different — different venue, different test. That’s a unique challenge.”
While both players are still at the peak of their careers and remain capable of completing the Grand Slam, McIlroy emphasized how rare and difficult the feat truly is.
“I hope we both do it one day,” McIlroy said with a smile. “But there’s a reason only five guys have ever pulled it off.”
As Spieth prepares to tee it up at Valhalla, the pressure will be high — but so will the sense of opportunity. And for golf fans, the drama of the Grand Slam chase continues to be one of the sport’s most compelling storylines.
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