Australian Open hunting stars with Jordan Spieth keen to defend

Jordan Spieth’s second Stonehaven Cup has presented Golf Australia with an unexpected dilemma.

Jordan Spieth poses with the Stonehaven Cup after winning the Australian Open at Royal Sydney on Sunday.

Jordan Spieth’s second Stonehaven Cup has presented Golf Australia with an unexpected dilemma.

On one hand, it improves their hopes of luring the former world No 1 back to Australia next year. On the other, it could signal the end of their pursuit of other big name players, most notably Phil Mickelson.

The Australian Open budget only stretches so far. With Jason Day again in the tournament’s sights, it is likely to leave only enough room for one big-name overseas player given the significant appearance fees involved. Spieth’s win at Royal Sydney on Sunday will ensure he remains the priority, despite concern in some quarters that the Sydney public may be more enamoured by a fresh face. Veteran left-hander Mickelson fits that bill.

As popular as ever, the 46-year-old Californian was close to playing in this year’s Open and it is understood there have been informal talks about a potential trip to Australia next year. The sense is that Mickelson may be interested but it may ultimately come down to money.

Mickelson, like Spieth, is managed by Lagardere Sports, which has a good relationship with Golf Australia, strengthening its hopes of luring the five-time major winner to Sydney. Golf Australia officials have also secured a date change to a week later in November which will aid their cause next year as they look to strengthen their field and future-proof the tournament.

By removing a date clash with the European Tour’s Race to Dubai finale, the Australian Open is now in position to make a play for the top European players including Rory McIlroy and Henrik Stenson. It has also ensured European-based Australian players such as Scott Hend and Marcus Fraser will be able to return for next year’s event.

Golf Australia chief executive Steve Pitt conceded officials were fortunate this year with everything seemingly falling into place following the withdrawal of Day. The weather was ideal, the stars hovered at the top of the leaderboard and the much-hyped youngsters held their own. The missing piece of the puzzle was Day, who was set to play this year until he was struck down by a back injury.

“We have no doubt there is a genuine desire for Jason to come back to Australia and play in the Open,” Pitt said.

Pitt acknowledged officials were already in talks with prospective players for next year.

“There’s already a lot of discussion going on,” he said.

“There has already been discussions with a couple of potential players next year. Jordan winning and deciding he wants to defend has an impact on that.

“We looked at him (Mickelson) once previously except he had a family engagement. I think he would be popular with Australian crowds.”

Golf Australia will also keep a watching brief on Tiger Woods’ return from long-term injury. Woods is due to make his comeback in a fortnight and the eyes of the world will be on the 14-time major winner, who has been sidelined for more than a year.