One of the youngest professional golfers at this summer’s British Open, 22-year-old Jordan Spieth, ended his chances of winning all four major titles in a single year by finishing one stroke behind Zach Johnson. However, with a handshake and a hug, Mr. Spieth was the first to walk over and congratulate Mr. Johnson on his win.
Photo courtesy of www.concordmonitor.com
Fans across the globe cheered his gesture. All in all, he stated that he was happy for his role model and friend, Zach Johnson, to win the title. Viewers immediately took to social media complimenting Mr. Spieth’s grace, and stating that he is a champion … ” a truly stand-up guy.”
“We gave it a great effort. Ideally, par-birdie is a perfect way to finish out here, and that would have gotten the job done, so it stings a little bit. Ultimately, I thought we gave it a pretty good run.”
Good sportsmanship always plays a part in winning the media game. If Mr. Spieth had shown anger at himself or a lousy attitude toward his opponent, he would not have received the high praise that he did.
In media training at READY FOR MEDIA in Los Angeles. we coach our clients that Courtesy is one of the C’s of Communication, along with Candor. And Mr. Spieth showed another of our C’s of Communication, as well. Class.