Adam Scott has singled out Jordan Spieth for special praise with confirmation the American will return to Sydney later this year to defend his Emirates Australian Open title.
The current world No.3 ranked Texan will tee up at The Australian looking to win the Stonehaven Trophy for a third occasion and, if successful, join a select group of six players who have won three or more Australian Open titles.
Among those are fellow Masters winners in Gary Player and Jack Nicklaus.
It will be Spieth's fourth straight appearance in the event having won courtesy of a final-round course-record 63 in 2014 before falling by a shot to Sydneysider Matt Jones in 2015 and then winning in a thrilling playoff last year.
“It is fantastic and exciting news Jordan will return to defend his title,” Scott said on the eve of the Scottish Open.
“It is also a big boost in general for Australian golf and also for everyone who is involved with organising the Australian Open.
“It also sets up for another great week in Australian golf.
“Jordan has been a great supporter of the Australian Open and the funny thing I stand here and I can honestly say I have not sought to encourage him and, in speaking to him, he says he just loves travelling to Sydney and doing a bit of sight-seeing.
“He has added so much to the tournament since he first came to Australia a few years back.
“I would be nice if Jordan would come back forever as he is just popular, and maybe his return each year will encourage more of the top players.”