Xander Schauffele frustration summed up by Justin Rose’s caddie – “I wish he was a w****r”

 

Xander Schauffele’s remarkable victory at the Open Championship on Sunday drew admiration from many, including Justin Rose’s caddie, Mark ‘Fooch’ Fulcher, who candidly expressed his mixed feelings about the American golfer. Fulcher’s honest remark, “I wish he was a w****r,” summed up the frustration of competing against someone so talented and likable.

 

Schauffele secured his second major title of the year with a stunning performance at Royal Troon, winning by three shots. This victory followed his maiden major win at the US PGA Championship earlier in the season. Starting the final round a shot behind the leader, Schauffele delivered an impressive 65, the best score among the top contenders, to lift the Claret Jug.

 

Justin Rose, who was also in contention, began the day tied with Schauffele at minus three. Despite a strong start, Rose couldn’t match Schauffele’s extraordinary round and finished outside the winner’s circle. Fulcher acknowledged Schauffele’s commendable character and skill, expressing a mix of admiration and envy for the American’s success.

 

Rose, reflecting on Schauffele’s approach, praised his calm demeanor and mental toughness. “A guy at the top of his game,” Rose remarked. “One of his most unappreciated qualities is his mentality. He’s so calm out there. I don’t know what he’s feeling, but he certainly makes it look very easy. He plays with a freedom that suggests he’s not weighed down by negative thoughts. There’s a lot of exciting stuff ahead for him.”

 

Schauffele’s victory continued the trend of American dominance at the Open, with Brian Harman winning the previous year and Colin Morikawa taking the title two years before that. “It’s an honor. I’ve always dreamt of doing it. It really is one of the coolest feelings I’ve ever had in my life,” Schauffele said after his triumph.

 

Rose, who had to qualify to compete at Royal Troon, reflected on his near miss. “The dream’s been alive all week, and I did an awesome job. This will be a tough one but a great one. I played in some of the hardest weather all week and some of the best golf, but it didn’t quite add up to the trophy.”

 

Despite the competitive frustration, Rose and his caddie couldn’t help but acknowledge the exceptional performance and sportsmanship of Xander Schauffele, the deserving Open champion.