Jordan Spieth Aims for Comeback at Cognizant Classic

PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. — Jordan Spieth is gearing up for the 2025 Cognizant Classic at PGA National, which begins its second round on Friday, February 28. After a challenging start to the season, the three-time major champion is looking to leverage this tournament as a turning point in his comeback from a persistent wrist injury.

Spieth got off to a strong start in the first round, carding a six-under-par 65 on Thursday, which included four birdies in his first nine holes. His performance placed him among the top contenders on the leaderboard. “It felt great to see the ball go in the hole,” Spieth said. “I’ve been working hard to get my game back in shape. This tournament is a big opportunity for me.”

For the second round, Spieth will tee off at 12:40 p.m. ET alongside fellow competitors Rickie Fowler and Russell Henley. The afternoon wave of the tournament’s tee times promises to deliver exciting golf, with significant implications for many players looking to position themselves for the upcoming marquee events on the Tour.

The Cognizant Classic is known for its challenging layout, having historically ranked among the toughest courses on the PGA Tour. The course’s renowned “Bear Trap,” comprised of holes 15 through 17, presents a formidable test with its water hazards. “You have to manage your way around those holes,” said Shane Lowry, who discussed the mental aspect of navigating the tricky par-3 and par-4 challenges.

With a total purse of $9.2 million, the event attracts numerous top-tier players. Among the field are 15 players ranked in the top 50 globally, including Russell Henley and Shane Lowry. The winner will take home $1,656,000, heightening the stakes as players jockey for their positions in the standings.

This year’s tournament not only signifies the start of the Florida swing on the PGA Tour but also serves as an essential fixture for players aiming to sharpen their skills as they look forward to the Masters Tournament. “It’s great to get a chance to compete on a course like this,” Spieth said, emphasizing the importance of gaining experience on challenging layouts ahead of Augusta.

The day’s action will be broadcast live on Golf Channel from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. ET, with additional online streaming available starting early Friday morning. Fans are encouraged to tune in to catch the drama as players vie for a pivotal lead heading into the weekend.