Jordan Spieth, the three-time major champion and former World No. 1, has faced his share of highs and lows in professional golf. From dominant seasons early in his career to recent struggles with swing consistency and form, the pressure of expectations has often weighed heavily. Yet, in a recent candid interview, Spieth shared that one of the most impactful pieces of advice he’s ever received didn’t come from a swing coach, mentor, or fellow pro—it came from the hit Apple TV+ series Ted Lasso.
In discussions around his mindset and mental approach, Spieth highlighted a simple yet powerful mantra that has stuck with him: “Be a goldfish.”
“I don’t know if it’s something I’ve gotten, but something I’ve used that I picked up from the show Ted Lasso was to be a goldfish,” Spieth explained. “I think it’s so important in our sport and really everything. As you set these new standards, and with the position I’m in, it’s just a really good thing to constantly think about.”
The phrase originates from Ted Lasso, where the optimistic coach, played by Jason Sudeikis, teaches his players that goldfish have famously short memories—about 10 seconds—meaning they forget mistakes almost instantly. In the high-stakes world of professional sports, where a bad shot, a missed putt, or a poor round can linger and erode confidence, this advice encourages letting go of errors quickly and moving forward without dwelling.
For Spieth, who has dealt with the mental grind of golf’s unforgiving nature—analyzing past performances, overthinking mechanics, and facing scrutiny after inconsistent results—the “goldfish” mindset offers a refreshing reset. Golf demands precision and focus, but rumination on failures can sabotage the present moment. By adopting this approach, Spieth aims to stay present, avoid carrying baggage from one shot to the next, and maintain the mental freshness needed to compete at the elite level.
This revelation came amid broader reflections on his game. In recent interviews, Spieth has discussed swing adjustments, the challenges of overthinking during rounds, and his optimism for 2026 after a solid but unspectacular start (including a T24 at the Sony Open). The Ted Lasso-inspired advice aligns perfectly with his efforts to simplify and protect his mental space—reminding himself that one bad moment doesn’t define the round, the tournament, or his career.
Spieth’s embrace of this pop-culture wisdom shows how even the most technically gifted athletes seek tools for resilience beyond the range or the course. In a sport where pressure can be relentless, the reminder to “be a goldfish” provides a lighthearted yet profound way to build mental toughness.
As Spieth continues his pursuit of another major and the career Grand Slam, this unlikely source of inspiration could prove key. Forget the bad shots fast, stay positive, and keep swimming forward—it’s advice that’s as applicable on the fairways as it is in everyday life.
