Dundonald Links, Scotland … 

Adam Scott has singled out Jordan Speith 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 club looking to win the prestigious 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 is fellow Masters winners Gary Player and Jack Nicklaus.

Jordan Spieth wins a second Australian Open in three years.

It will be Spieth’s fourth straight appearance in the event having won courtesy of a final round course record 63 in 2014 before seeing Sydneysider Matt Jones win in 2015 and then winning in a thrilling play-off late last year.

“It is fantastic and exciting news Jordan will return to defend his title”, said Scott 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 as 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.

And confirmation of Spieth’s return to defend his title comes after fellow American Harold Varner 111 recently confirmed he intends to defend his Australian PGA Championship on the Gold Coast.