J.J. Spaun on Presidents Cup Snub: ‘Odd Man Out’ Contending at BMW PGA Championship
Published · Updated
Cited: GOLF.com, Golf Channel, HITC
TL;DR
J.J. Spaun, left off the U.S. Presidents Cup team, is contending for the BMW PGA Championship title, playing with a chip on his shoulder after being the 'odd man out.'
Why now
With the Presidents Cup just days away and Spaun proving his fitness and form in England, the scrutiny on captain Brandt Snedeker's decision intensifies.
Agree / conflict
Some argue Spaun's late-season fade justified the snub; others point to his Ryder Cup record and current play as evidence of a missed opportunity.
Takeaway
Snubs can fuel success: Spaun is turning disappointment into a strong performance at Wentworth, potentially reshaping the conversation around team selection.
J.J. Spaun was widely expected to make the U.S. Presidents Cup team after a solid season that included a win at the Valero Texas Open and a strong Ryder Cup debut. But when Brandt Snedeker announced his six captain's picks, Spaun's name was missing. The likely reason: a late-season injury that forced him to withdraw from the Tour Championship, combined with a stretch of poor finishes. Spaun did not hide his disappointment, calling himself the 'odd man out.'
Instead of sulking, Spaun traveled to England for the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth. Through three rounds, he has played nearly flawless golf, rising to one shot off the lead. His play is a clear message to the U.S. team: he is healthy, in form, and motivated. 'It's a bummer to miss out on the team events...I'm definitely carrying a bit of a chip on my shoulder this week,' he said.
If Spaun wins on Sunday, the decision to leave him off the team will be heavily second-guessed. For now, he is using the snub as fuel, playing some of his best golf on one of the DP World Tour's biggest stages.
FAQ
Why was J.J. Spaun left off the U.S. Presidents Cup team?
Captain Brandt Snedeker did not select him, likely due to Spaun's late-season struggles and his withdrawal from the Tour Championship with an injury, which may have raised concerns about his health.
How is Spaun performing at the BMW PGA Championship?
He is one shot off the lead after three rounds at 12-under par, playing solid golf and contending for the title.
Has Spaun played in team events before?
Yes, he made his U.S. team debut at the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, going 2-1-0 and being one of only three Americans with a winning record.
What did Spaun say about the snub?
He admitted disappointment, saying he was the 'odd man out,' but added that he is carrying a chip on his shoulder and is motivated to win this week.
Sources
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