On February 22, 2026, Jordan Spieth exited the Riviera Country Club with a scorecard that left some things to be desired from the turbulent week that Spieth had at the Genesis Invitational. Even with the score of 11-under par, the self-assessment of the Texan was apt.

The three-week West Coast swing has evidenced a steady climb for Spieth, who admitted the three-week tournament has shown him a clear understanding after a "mess" of a performance the week prior, though his execution on the West Coast remained on par.

The Putter That Saved the Week

"I did not quite get my swing where I wanted it to, so my ball control was probably a C," Spieth said following his round. Spieth may have struggled with his long shots, but he "managed the game extremely well" thanks to elite short-game execution.

Spieth's saving grace was a vintage performance with the flat stick, especially on the notoriously challenging greens at Riviera. "It would be hard for me to believe anybody putted better inside 10 feet this week," he said, adding that he putted at an "A" level.

A significant setup change he made while working with his coach, Cameron McCormick, in Dallas has paid off. Spieth was finally able to utilize his "weapon" in putting by looking at the hole or a specific spot on it.

It was evident that the mental pressure of the FedEx Cup points race was on Spieth. He recognized that players in his position, outside the top 50, face more mental pressure with each shot than those who have already qualified for the significant events.

This week gave former Masters champion Spieth a bit of "house money", marking his most at-ease stretch since Hawaii 2024. It provides crucial momentum ahead of his return to a place rich in history.

Spieth will play in the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill because he received a tournament exemption. He hopes to improve his iron play and accuracy off the tee during a week of practice in Dallas.

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Written by

Abhishek Sharma

Edited by

Joyita Das