Padraig Harrington sees X-factor, and a hint of himself, in Jordan Spieth

Jordan Spieth might have the X-factor on his side as he seeks the career Grand Slam but Rory McIlroy comes into this week’s US PGA Championship knowing that his game can catch catch fire at any minute.

That’s the view of Pádraig Harrington who believes the rivalry between Spieth and McIlroy, and their ups and downs, is not only crucial for the health of the game but a reminder that nothing is set in stone in the post-Tiger Woods world.

“You need the excitement in golf,” Harrington said of Spieth’s bid for the career Grand Slam and McIlroy’s hope that he can end his three-year wait for that elusive fifth major. “You need the drama.