To the best of my knowledge, Jordan Spieth’s caddie Michael Greller politely declined to speak with the media on Sunday following their disappointing loss at the Masters. Well, two days removed from the heartbreaking finish, Greller opened up on Facebook and shared some fantastic insight on the journey that he’s been on with the two-time major champion from when he first met him through Justin Thomas (aka, “Spieth’s good friend”) in 2011.
I asked Michael if I could share what he wrote with you guys, as I think it provides perspective and reaffirms the strong character that Spieth appears to demonstrate on and off the golf course, and he graciously gave me the go-ahead. We could all learn something from both Spieth and Greller.
Here you go. Enjoy.
A Friday afternoon at the 2011 U.S. Amateur at Erin Hills served as foreshadowing for a scene I’ve witnessed unfold a handful of times now. I remember it vividly and learned so much about myself and then 17-year-old, Jordan Spieth. We had just met a few weeks earlier at the U.S. Jr. Amateur, where he won the title for a second time. Our paths crossed again at Erin Hills, at the most important amateur golf tourney of the year. I was fortunate enough to caddie for Justin Thomas in three of these, including Erin Hills. Justin played incredible in the stroke play qualifying and made it into the second round, no small feat. It was there that an Englishman named Jack Senior beat Justin and thus also ended my weeklong fairytale from teaching sixth grade. I was bitter, angry and every bit not a role model for how to lose.
Jordan, with his dad Shawn on the bag, had continued to advance at that U.S. Amateur and so I decided to stick around and follow them. Lo and behold, he advanced all the way to the quarterfinals where he met none other than Jack Senior. My emotions were running high and I wanted nothing more than for Jordan to pummel Jack. Jack built a huge lead at the turn and had Jordan on the ropes. I seethed and mumbled things under my breath, acting every bit like a sore loser. But Jordan battled back and eventually squared up the match heading into the par 5, 18th. Jordan was one hole and one more match from punching his ticket to The Masters. I grew sick to my stomach as Jordan made bogey on the last hole. Jack had two putts to advance to the semifinals and continue on in the biggest stage of amateur golf. Jack lagged the putt to about two and half feet.
What happened next and later that night shocked me. Jordan took off his hat and said, “That’s good”. He walked over to Jack, looked him square in the eyes and shook his hand like a gentlemen. Rather than run to the locker room and escape the scene, he stuck around and thanked his friends who had followed him. This kid who I had just met weeks earlier then invited me to join him and his dad for dinner. We laughed and shared stories late into the night from the U.S. Jr. Amateur as well as the U.S Amateur. He never once said a bad word about Jack. There was no panic, anger or sadness. Jordan didn’t want sympathy after that U.S. Amateur loss. His self-belief and character never wavered.
A couple weeks later Jordan defeated Jack in singles at the Walker Cup. Jack went on to describe Jordan saying, “He is just such a talent. He possesses so much talent and then just doesn’t fear anything. But he is just such a nice and down to earth guy. I know for a fact if I qualify for The Open and see him there then he will come over and speak to me. That’s the kind of person he is. When we won the Walker Cup he was one of the guys out celebrating with us, he is a class act.”
I’ve been fortunate enough to ride shotgun with Jordan for every step of his PGA Tour career. What a journey he has taken me, my wife, his family and friends on. Not even five years after that Erin Hills loss, he has won nine times around the world. Two majors. One Fed Ex Cup Title. Been #1 golfer on the planet. Two President’s Cup teams. One Ryder Cup team. A future Olympian. And the experiences off the course have been absolutely priceless.
Through it all, there have been tough losses and surely will be more. After the Grand Slam chase ended on the last hole at The Open, Jordan was there to congratulate his friend Zach Johnson and even flew home with him. The next month when Jason Day won his first major, Jordan was nothing but first class and respectful to Jason throughout that final round.
The 2016 Masters stung. Hats off to Danny Willett for an incredible final round, and more importantly, becoming a father. We have received an outpouring of support and thoughtful messages. But don’t feel sorry or sad for us. We won’t get stuck in this moment, nor should you. We will work harder, fight harder and be better for it. We will bounce back as we have done many times.
At the end of the day, golf is a sport. I am especially thankful to have an unconditionally loving wife Ellie Greller, family and friends who treat us the exact same regardless of wins and losses. This isn’t life and death stuff. There are far greater struggles that exist in this world than not winning The Masters. We are beyond blessed to do what we do. We are grateful to work alongside the greatest golfers and caddies in the world. It is a challenge we relish.
A wise coach reminded me recently, winning shows your character and losing shows ALL your character. Jordan continues to model grace and humility through wins and especially losses. The student continues to teach the teacher, and now millions others, just like he did at Erin Hills.
Jordan Spieth is the same genuine, grounded and humble person he was five years ago, in victory or defeat.
Thanks for sharing, Michael — you and Jordan are both class acts, in victory or defeat.
Wow, that was incredible
Nicklaus had that exact same attitude about winning & losing. Just sayin’ ….
Impressive attitude by both player & caddie. Sure would be nice if Jordan won The Open though!
Having two sons who attended Jesuit College Prep, I am always extremely proud of and thankful for Jordan Spieth as a prime example of the caliber of men that come out of that fine school. However, I think his parents helped him develop his moral compass even before he got to Jesuit. Young Mr. Spieth is simply a joy to watch play this wonderful game, and while we would really like to see him win every round of golf, he brings a special kind of class to the game win, lose, or draw. We love this fine young “Man for Others”, and I know he has many more wins in his future. Thank you, Mr. Greller, for some loving insights into Jordan Spieth.
Yes thank you Michael! !
[…] the gist of what Jordan Spieth’s caddie, Michael Greller, posted on Facebook a couple of days after the golfer collapsed in the final round of the 2016 Masters at Augusta […]
As a retired HS Admin and coach of elite hs student-athletes; I can see that it is a real plus for Jordan to have you on his bag. Best of luck to the team in upcoming events; looking forward to watching you guys at the Players.
class with class…
We love winners of tournaments, we do more so that of character and life. Fortunate to witness the “we” team.
I like team Speith even more after reading this what a great attitude towards sports .
I like team Speith even more after reading this what a great attitude towards sports .
you are both winners
WOW! What incredible class! Great attitude winning & losing! It is nice to see some humble people in the sports world. You and Jordan are very grounded and make an awesome team. Best of luck in future tournaments!
Well written, nice piece. Shoulda coulda woulda on the 12th, oh well, spieth said that happened 3 years ago and lost to Bubba only to come back and win last year. Its okay, he can win the US Open, The Open and the PGA and start his quest for a Spieth Slam.
I find it impossible to think of a higher level of class than what I have read in Mr Greller’s post and what I have observed of the Greller/Spieth duo on the golf course.
at 69 years old I’ve had as many downs as ups and looking back I may have learned more from the downs than I did from the ups. You guys are an inspiration to so many people because of your class maybe more so than golf. Don’t ever lose sight of that. Life is short.
Thank you for putting this in perspective. He will be ok if he keeps his head down and plugs away. He is 22 years old and is living the life that others always dream of . Fortunately for him he is surrounded by grounded people who will bring him bak to the top. Life happens and sometimes things do not go as planned. At 22 life can get better
Thank you for sharing, dignity and class is a beautiful thing.
This is why I love this kid. And he is so different than Tiger. Tiger just always had this look of irritation, could rarely smile and never seemed gracious like Jordan. Crushed me when I saw him shank that hole at the Masters and I’m a 44 year old man. I wish him nothing but the best in his very bright future.
I have Jordan and his caddie ever since they came on to the pro level. Both men are class acts, and what Michael wrote was so sincere and I told so many of my friends and family members, yes this is a terrible loss, but that is in the past now. We go forward, and Jordan you will be the first to win three green jackets in a row. You have wonderful friends and family behind you, go forward with the determination and drive you are blessed with. Jan Russell, a devoted golf fan
It’s comforting to hear from “the inside guy” that what we see of Jordan is genuine. Jordan and Michael are my guys – win or lose. I’m with them all the way.
Yes thank you Michael! !
With attitudes like that of Jordan Spieth and Michael Geller, they are always winners regardless of the number of strokes it takes.
A true champion. May you both have a long and successful career
Very touching, It’s good to hear that they are as genuine as they seem. It’s also good to know other’s have their priorities in order. Go team Spieth!
Wow….so inspirational….what a “Team”….looking forward to watching
the “Team” for many years to come.
A”CLASS TWOSOME” in a CLASS sport!! Both are a credit to the game and their Families, Well Done Moms and Dads!!!
I have watched all your recent tournaments and have enjoyed them very much. Sorry for your loss this past Sunday but you will be back stronger than ever. Can’t put a good man down. May God bless.
While I watched and routed for Jordon to win the Masters I am encouraged by his maturity and humility. Our kids, and some adults, need people in our lives to look up to. At my age I am glad to read about Jordon’s character and am encouraged that not only will he continue to be successful but serve as a role model for all of us who love sports.
[…] Via Wei Under Par, Greller’s essay is posted in its entirety: […]
Thanks Michael…That is great stuff…I have a funny feeling that alot of fifth graders are missing an extraordinary teacher. Will be watching you on the bag of a great player…Thanks..Barry Frankel
[…] Via Wei Under Par, Greller’s essay is posted in its entirety: […]
[…] Via Wei Under Par, Greller’s essay is posted in its entirety: […]
Wow. Humble. Graceful. Elegant. And pure class. Winning happens. So does losing. Team Spieth will be back. There’s no doubt about it.
Wow I’m speechless there both class act’s. Im still having nightmares of number 12. But wow is all I can really say. The PGA tour has a great group of player’s on the tour. Jordan will bounce back he has all the right people around him. No doubt. And a caddie that’s amazing.
Are you kidding me? It’s an f-ing game, that produces nothing for anyone (except the winners) but a way to sit in a chair and drink beer on a Sunday. Who cares? 3000 rich guys? Thanks for the entertainment. Was that Tin Cup out there? Water, water everywhere…and yet not one human died.
And that caddie needs to SHUT UP. He didn’t take a swing. Get your nose out of the kid’s butt. HE is not part of YOU, and YOU are not part of any WE. You are as replaceable as a old club. Promise.
now Jordon is the teacher, and mike the pupil, this is what true professionalism is all about, great job guys, be there at the open rooting u guys on
I am so glad that you shared this article. I am so proud of your “team”.
Your comment that winning shows your character and losing shows all
your character, is how every player in every sport should abide by and pass on to all the young people in the world. It goes with the saying, it’s not whether you win or lose, it’s how you play the game. Good sportsmanship should always have priority. You have earned my respect as I know you have with many. Respect is also something that needs to be cherished and passed on forever. Realizing that family, love & health are the most important aspects in life assures me that your team is on the right path and will have a wonderful life. God Bless!
And life go on, we all felt the loss as proud JS fans. Time to get back on that horse and ride on. Win the next 5/6 we love you and the team.
Masters, 2017 Jordan Spieth by 8
I read bits and pieces of the above but wanted to share MY opinion with you. Michael, you are the coach out there and as far as I’m concerned, you did not do a “complete” job out there with Jordan as he was finishing round two and three. You need to be looking straight at him and telling him on 17 and 18 tees that he just needs to put the ball “in the fairway”, nothing special, just fairway, cause you hit in on the green with no matter what club you have in your hand. That eliminates bogie, double bogie, on Saturday. Then, going to 12 on Sunday, I know what I would have said….you obviously DIDN’T, cause you’ve never played in a “big” tournament yourself so you might not know what the player needs mentally at that point in the round. I blame you even more than him for his bad holes on that back nine…and you know what….regardless of what you say or think, that WILL haunt Jordan for the next few years. After it dies off some, he’ll still hurt some whenever he thinks about this “major”!!! You may not, but in his mind, he’ll be hurting.
You know there is nothing more to be said, the ” Speith – Greller team” is still the team to beat! So they got beat, but it wasn’t without a fight. I will argue with anyone that says it’s just a game…it’s not just a game it’s their life. Like the “Woods – Williams Team” they will return to fight again. They will win! So “Speech-Greller team” take the week off relax and enjoy your families and come back and be proud of who you are and know you are still the team to beat. Hugs, your new adopted Aunt Sandy!!
Yes and uncle Daniel! !
Great stuff @michael_greller. Orange City is proud of you and rooting for you
i am almost 80 and have been a Texas Longhorn since I was old enough to remember (remember Bobby Layne, my first football idol if you will). But I can truthfully say that in all those years since that I have never been prouder of one of our exes then Jordan Spieth. God bless you, and with this experience behind you, trust me, you will be an even better and stronger player for it in your great future ahead. You handled the Masters loss as only the fine person youare could have. So you might say the pressure from being perfect is gone. You are still the best golfer in the world,so just enjoy it (bogeys or eagles). And remember “HOOK EM HORNS” Can’t wait for the U.S. Open, can you!!
This is why we love the Jordan Spieth Team ~ They are the best ever role models for all the children and teens growing up ~ Even for adults who cuss and throw clubs ~ We need this quality in this day and time even when you don’t win you need to be a gentlemen and lady and face victory and defect in a humble and sportsman’s type of way~ You don’t get trophy’s even when you don’t win ….like they do in children’s sports to make them feel better ~ You have to work hard and earn your spot in the games history~ It is hard but very rewarding when you do make the cut and win the game in this gentleman’s game of golf…… but when you lose you dust yourself off, regroup and start the process over again for the next challenge in the days after your defeat …… by learning valuable lessens of the past day ~ That is what “Champions are make of………. & that’s the way of the “Spieth Team” , who I love, admire and root for ~ Dana Post
Great article so true Jordan is a Class Act and so is his caddie. Michael, I hurt for them, just till I read this article. God bless them and their families. Jordan is a great young man . Thank Michael the story of not a golfer but a young man with a Big Heart. Amen
Miss Wie awesome article. A+
My 7 yr old grandson normally wears saggy shorts and a big t-shirt to school. Only Monday morning he came downstairs dressed in long pants and an Under Armor polo shirt. He said “I want to be Jordan Spieth.” What a role model Jordan is for our youth!
Great man! Shall wait for your return
Great article.
Total professionals!!Enjoyed the Masters so much..Looking forward to the next 30 years of this fantastic team of gentlemen.
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Jordan Spieth: Young, Great……Older, Greater…Hang in there. This is a great TEAM…Shake it off and learn from it…Both men are so inspiring. Good Luck and just Enjoy the ride….Thanks for great Golf!