Nina Caldwell
Jordan Spieth is a professional golfer who plays golf right-handed, despite being left-handed in other aspects of his life, such as baseball and writing. Spieth's unusual orientation has sparked discussions among golf enthusiasts, with some speculating that he may be ambidextrous. Spieth himself has commented on the topic, advising junior golfers to try both sides and adopt the stance that feels most powerful. While switch-hitting is common in baseball, it is rare in golf, making Spieth's left-handed stance a unique feature of his game.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Handedness | Ambidextrous |
| Golf stance | Left-handed |
| Golf swing | Right-handed |
| Baseball | Left-handed |
| Writing | Right-handed |
| Signature | Right-handed |
| Throwing | Left-handed |
| Putting grip | Left hand low |
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What You'll Learn
Jordan Spieth is left-handed but plays golf right-handed
Spieth's left-handedness is evident in other areas of his life. He writes and throws left-handed, and he plays baseball left-handed. When he swings a golf club, however, he does so right-handed. This is known as being a ""switch hitter"" in baseball terms. While switch-hitting is common in baseball, it is rare in golf.
Spieth's left-handedness has been a topic of discussion among golf enthusiasts and fans. Some have observed that Spieth uses a "left hand low" grip when putting, which can help eliminate hand movement for those who struggle with consistency in their stroke. This grip involves locking down the left hand and bringing the right hand close in, creating a double overlap grip with the thumb.
Spieth's unusual left-handedness in a right-handed golf world has even led to some interesting rules situations. In one instance, Spieth took a left-handed stance to take relief under Rule 16.1a(3), which allows for free relief if the player can demonstrate that they could have played the stroke reasonably without the obstruction.
When asked for advice for junior golfers wondering which hand to swing with, Spieth recommended trying both and adopting whatever feels most powerful. He emphasized that learning to swing fast and build up golf muscles is more important than which side you swing from.
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Spieth's left-hand-low grip
Jordan Spieth is left-handed in everyday life but swings a golf club right-handed. He is known for his left-hand-low grip, which has helped him become one of the best putters on the PGA Tour.
The left-hand-low grip is not a new technique, but Spieth has mastered it and proven its effectiveness. This grip is driven by the left shoulder, which, when positioned correctly, helps the putter gently rise through impact. It is important to keep the left arm connected to the torso, with the elbow pinned against the side, to ensure the left arm and shoulder are in sync.
To achieve this grip, Spieth holds his putter with the middle of the grip under his left thumb pad, ensuring the shaft becomes an extension of his left arm. He then brings the putter back with a little forward shaft lean, allowing a small, controlled amount of flexibility in the wrists.
By following Spieth's left-hand-low grip technique, golfers can improve their putting and increase their consistency on the greens.
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Spieth's inconsistent stroke
Jordan Spieth is left-handed in everyday life, but he plays golf right-handed. He throws and shoots left-handed, but when it comes to swinging a golf club, he does so right-handed. This is likely due to the influence of his uncle, who taught Spieth how to play golf from a young age and did not want to teach him left-handed, as well as the fact that most golf equipment is designed for right-handed players. Spieth himself has recommended that junior golfers try both sides and adopt whatever feels the most powerful.
Spieth has experienced some inconsistencies in his golf career, particularly during the 2019 PGA Tour season, where he noted that he had been inconsistent and that his tee balls were costing him a chance to win golf tournaments. Spieth has also dealt with issues of being too handsy in his putting stroke, which can lead to flipping at the ball and a lack of consistency.
To address this, Spieth uses a left-hand-low grip, which helps to eliminate the hands from the stroke and create a more consistent roll towards the hole. This grip involves getting the left hand locked down with the right hand close in, creating a double overlap grip with the thumbs close together. As Spieth brings back his putter, he adds a little forward shaft lean, allowing for a small, controlled amount of wrist flex while preventing the putter from flipping.
Despite these challenges, Spieth has achieved remarkable success in golf, winning the Masters Tournament, U.S. Open Championship, Open Championship, and numerous other tournaments throughout his career.
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Spieth's advice for junior golfers
Jordan Spieth is left-handed in everyday life but plays golf right-handed. He is considered one of the most decorated junior golfers in American history and has won three major championship titles.
Surround Yourself With Good Competition
Jordan Spieth was constantly surrounded by players good enough to beat him. In an individual sport like golf, you’re as good as the people around you. So, seek out and play with good competition to push yourself to improve.
Start Young and Practice Often
Spieth started playing golf at a young age and practiced consistently. He joined junior golf circuits and regional tours, which helped him develop his skills and compete with other juniors. By the time he was 18, he was already ranked No. 1 in the AJGA Golf Rankings, which recognises the best junior golfers worldwide.
Learn to Swing Fast and Build Golf Muscles
Spieth advises junior golfers wondering which side to swing from to try both and adopt whatever feels the most powerful. He suggests that learning how to swing fast and building up golf muscles is more important than which side you swing from. Focus on speed and strength, and as you get older, you can learn to control it.
Focus on Grip and Putting Stroke
Spieth is known for his unique grip, with his left hand low, which helps him eliminate his hands from the putting stroke. He keeps his left hand locked down and his right hand close in, forming a double overlap grip. This technique helps him maintain a consistent stroke and improve his putting accuracy.
Adapt to Your Circumstances
Spieth mentions that most golf equipment is designed for right-handed players, so left-handed golfers may have fewer club options. However, he notes that certain golf courses, like Augusta, are better suited for left-handed players. Recognise these advantages and adapt your strategy to make the most of your resources.
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Spieth's left-handed stance
Jordan Spieth is left-handed in everyday life, but he swings a golf club right-handed. He throws and shoots left-handed, but when it comes to golf, he's a righty. This is a relatively common phenomenon, with many left-handed people throughout history playing golf from the right-handed side.
Spieth's grip and putting stroke have been the subject of analysis and instruction. He uses a left-hand-low grip, which can help eliminate hand flipping and improve consistency. This grip involves locking down the left hand and bringing the right hand close in, creating a double overlap grip with the thumb close together. This technique helps to create a straight line from the forearm down the putter shaft, resulting in a more consistent stroke.
When asked for advice for junior golfers wondering which side to swing from, Spieth suggested trying both and adopting whatever feels the most powerful. He emphasized the importance of learning to swing fast and build up golf muscles at a young age, as control can be developed later. Spieth's advice reflects his own experience of successfully adapting a left-handed stance to a right-handed swing in golf.
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Frequently asked questions
Jordan Spieth is left-handed, but he swings a golf club right-handed. He is likely ambidextrous.
No, Jordan Spieth signs autographs with his right hand.
No, Jordan Spieth does not play golf left-handed. He does, however, use a left-hand-low grip when putting.
