Spaun wins BMW PGA after snub

JJ Spaun claimed the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth just days after being left out of the US Presidents Cup team by captain Brandt Snedeker. Spaun became only the third American to win the event.

Snedeker made tough captain's picks

Snedeker said he had to choose from 15 or 16 candidates for his 12-man team and trusted his gut instinct. He named Ryan Gerard, Akshay Bhatia, and Gary Woodland as close calls during deliberations.

“You got to trust your gut. My gut was telling me one thing.”

Spaun finished 10th in standings

The 36-year-old US Open champion finished 10th in the Presidents Cup points standings but was still overlooked. The team included 21-year-old rookie Jackson Koivun and veteran Patrick Cantlay, both ranked outside the top 12.

Brief phone call delivered the news

Spaun said Snedeker called him after the Tour Championship with a 45-second conversation saying he was the odd man out. Spaun had expected to make the team based on earlier conversations with the captain.

“It was like a 45-second phone call. Just said I wasn't on the team and said I was the odd man out.”

Spaun played with chip on shoulder

Spaun admitted the snub motivated him at Wentworth, saying he had a point to prove. He noted his entire career has been about earning opportunities the hard way without sponsor invites or scholarships.

“I was pretty determined this week to kind of prove something. My whole career, I've kind of had to do that.”

Spaun's recent form was strong

The 36-year-old won the Valero Texas Open earlier this season and claimed the US Open last year. He also made his Team USA debut at the Ryder Cup in September 2025.

Snedeker wants Spaun to prove him wrong

Snedeker said he wants Spaun to make him look like an idiot by performing well. The Presidents Cup runs Thursday through Sunday at Medinah Country Club, pitting the US against the International Team.

“I want JJ Spaun to make me look like an idiot.”