John Michael Spaun Jr. (J.J.) is an American professional golfer who has recently made headlines after winning the 2025 U.S. Open, marking his first major championship victory. His journey from start to golf stardom is a perfect story of resilience, multicultural roots, and dedication to the sport. Let’s learn more about his background, education, and career milestones.
Check out: What is the Green Card Lottery in the US? Check Key Details and Facts
Some Basic Facts About J.J. Spaun
| Fact | Details |
| Full Name | John Michael Spaun Jr. (J.J.) |
| Nationality | American |
| Date of Birth | August 21, 1990 |
| Education | San Dimas High School, San Diego State University |
| Profession | Professional Golfer |
| Spouse | Melody Means |
| Children | Two daughters (born in 2020 and 2023) |
| Medical Condition | Type 1 Diabetes |
Nationality and Early Life
J.J. Spaun was born on August 21, 1990, in Los Angeles, California, and holds American nationality. He comes from a diverse background, as his father, John Michael Spaun Sr., is from Europe, and his mother, Dollie, has Filipino and Mexican roots. Golf has been a part of Spaun’s life since birth. His mother was also an avid golfer and, to much surprise, she even played while pregnant with him. By the age of three, Spaun was swinging a plastic golf set and started practicing shots in a garage net, which was set up by his father, without any formal coaching.
Educational Qualification
J.J. Spaun completed his graduation with a degree in social science from San Dimas High School in 2008 and went to San Diego State University, where he played collegiate golf for the San Diego State Aztecs. Although he was lightly recruited, he made a strong impression, becoming a two-time All-Mountain West Conference selection and the 2012 Conference Player of the Year. He was also named a Third-team All-American in 2011 and a Second-team All-American in 2012, achieving three-straight individual wins in his senior year. So, basically, he turned into a golf professional in 2012.
Career Highlights
Spaun began his professional journey on the PGA Tour Canada, where he eventually claimed his first professional win at the Staal Foundation Open in 2015. He made all 11 cuts that season, set a tour record for single-season earnings, and secured a spot on the Web.com Tour for 2016.
In 2016, he won the News Sentinel Open, shooting a tournament-record 26-under 258 on his 26th birthday. But the biggest victory of Spaun’s life came in March 2025, when he finished as runner-up at the Players Championship, losing to Rory McIlroy in a dramatic playoff. And, just months later, in June 2025, he captured his first major title in the U.S.
Personal Life and Health
Spaun married Melody Means in 2019, and the couple has two daughters, born in 2020 and 2023. Talking about some health factors in 2018, Spaun was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, but after ineffective treatment, he was correctly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 2021.
Conclusion
J.J. Spaun’s life journey is a remarkable tale of hard work and resilience. With a strong multicultural background and unwavering determination, Spaun has now been considered one of the most elite golfers.
Must read
