Jordan Spieth’s career has been a rollercoaster of incredible highs and tough lows. After bursting onto the scene with 11 PGA Tour wins and three majors by 2017, he hit a rough patch, going four years without a victory. But Spieth’s grit and determination brought him back, with a win at the 2021 Valero Texas Open and another at the 2022 RBC Heritage. Now, as of 2023, he’s proven he’s still a force in golf, chasing more majors and reminding everyone why he’s one of the game’s brightest stars.
In the latest episode of Golf’s Subpar on YouTube, USA pro golfer Michael Kim shared his thoughts on the Player Advisory Council (PAC) and its potential impact on a player’s game. Kim mentioned that being on the board can be detrimental to a player’s performance, saying “If you check their (PAC members) FedEx Cup rankings on the years these guys were on the board and not on the board… it’s not going to be the most beneficial thing to your game.”
He also shared an example of how hectic it is to be a PAC member, citing Adam Scott’s experience with a 2-3 hour board call after a round of golf. Scott reportedly told Kim, “It’s the last thing I would want to do after a round. It’s a legit job.” Kim’s comments have sparked speculation about whether Jordan Spieth’s involvement with the PAC contributed to his dip in form. Spieth joined the board in 2018, the same year his hot streak ended, and later became the chairman.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Spieth’s time as chairman of the PGA Tour’s Player Advisory Council (PAC) may have contributed to the challenges he’s faced on the course in recent years. While it’s impossible to know for sure, some, like Kim, believe that the added stress and pressure of the role might have played a part. As Kim explained, “These guys are actually spending a lot of time in meetings, having conversations about improving the PGA Tour.” Balancing such responsibilities alongside competing at the highest level of golf is no easy task, and it may have impacted Spieth’s focus and performance.
Camilo Villegas elected Chairman of PGA Tour’s Player Advisory Council
Now, the PGA Tour has announced a new leader to take on this demanding role. Camilo Villegas has been elected as the new chairman of the PAC, replacing Spieth starting January 1, 2025. Villegas, a 42-year-old Colombian golfer with five career wins, joined the PAC board last month and secured the position over Kevin Streelman in a vote by his fellow players. As chairman, Villegas will work closely with the tour’s board and Commissioner Jay Monahan to address key issues affecting the league.
Villegas takes on this role at a critical time for the PGA Tour. Negotiations with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) and the Strategic Sports Group for private-equity investment remain unresolved, despite a framework agreement being reached in June. Tensions have grown as PIF resumes efforts to recruit players, creating uncertainty and division within professional golf. Experts suggest it could take one to two years to achieve unity, even if an agreement is finalized. With Villegas stepping into the spotlight, the PAC’s leadership faces immense challenges ahead, navigating these complexities while working to secure a stable and successful future for the PGA Tour.
Have something to say?
Let the world know your perspective.
Challenge Your Sports Knowledge!
Solve the puzzle and prove your knowledge of iconic players, terms, and moments.
Debate
Did Jordan Spieth's PAC role derail his game, or was it just a coincidence?