Rory McIlroy, Collin Morikawa disagree with Scottie Scheffler, applaud FedEx Cup Playoff format

Rory McIlroy and Collin Morikawa Defend FedEx Cup Playoff Format Amid Scottie Scheffler’s Criticism

As the FedEx Cup Playoffs commence this week with the FedEx St. Jude Championship in Memphis, the PGA Tour’s playoff format has sparked diverse opinions among the tour’s elite players. Scottie Scheffler, currently the top-ranked player, has voiced strong criticism of the structure, particularly the ‘Starting Strokes Format’ used for the Tour Championship. In contrast, fellow top players Rory McIlroy and Collin Morikawa have expressed support for the format, each presenting their perspectives on why it benefits the sport.

 

The FedEx Cup Playoffs, spanning three weeks and culminating in the Tour Championship, have been a topic of debate since their inception. Scheffler, who has been a vocal critic of the format, finds the idea of the playoffs culminating in the Tour Championship—with its Starting Strokes Format—problematic. This format rewards the top players in the standings with a head start in the final event. Specifically, the top-ranked player begins at 10-under-par, the second-ranked starts at 8-under, and the starting scores decrease progressively down to even par for those ranked 26th through 30th.

 

Scheffler’s main issue lies with the concept of giving such a substantial advantage to those at the top of the standings. “I think it’s silly,” he stated, reflecting his discontent with how the format emphasizes the starting scores rather than focusing solely on performance throughout the final event.

 

In contrast, Rory McIlroy and Collin Morikawa have defended the format, citing its benefits from both a competitive and entertainment perspective. McIlroy, who is currently ranked third in the FedEx Cup standings, appreciates the format for its ability to keep the playoffs competitive. “I love this format because if it wasn’t this format, then none of us would have a chance against Scottie because he’s so far ahead,” McIlroy said. Scheffler’s substantial lead—nearly 2,000 points ahead of second-ranked Xander Schauffele, and 1,500 points clear of McIlroy—demonstrates his dominance this season. McIlroy’s support stems from a belief that the format creates an engaging competition, even for those significantly trailing the leader.

 

Morikawa, who initially had reservations about the format, has come to appreciate its merits. “The simple answer is yes,” he affirmed, acknowledging the inherent unpredictability of golf. “With any sport, playoffs are playoffs, and sometimes the best teams—a lot of the times, the best teams don’t win. What’s crazy about our sport is there’s so much fluctuation and there’s so much variable that you don’t know how someone is going to play.” Morikawa’s perspective emphasizes that the playoff format accounts for the variability in performance and the potential for unexpected outcomes, a common feature in golf.

 

Morikawa further elaborated on the nature of golf and its playoffs: “I don’t think it’s a perfect system. I think we’ve got to down to, guys can complain, this, that. If you’re the best and you want to show up, you have to show up, especially at the Tour Championship. That’s just how things work.” He noted that while the system might not be perfect, it aligns with the unpredictable nature of golf, where performance can vary from week to week.

 

McIlroy also acknowledged the entertainment value of the format, despite its imperfections. “I think [the format] makes the Tour Championship more exciting from a consumer standpoint. Is it the fairest reflection of who’s been the best player of the year? Probably not. But I think at this point we’re not in for totally fair, we’re in for entertainment and trying to put on the best product we possibly can,” he explained. McIlroy’s sentiment reflects a broader acceptance of the format’s role in enhancing viewer engagement and making the playoffs more compelling for fans.

 

Reflecting on his own experiences, McIlroy shared, “The first year that it was the starting strokes at the Tour Championship in 2019, I was able to win that one, and then in ‘22 again. I like this format. It sort of feels like it’s a bit of a reset after the regular season.” McIlroy’s positive experience with the format, having won under this system, contributes to his support and appreciation for its ability to balance competition with excitement.

 

In summary, while Scottie Scheffler has criticized the FedEx Cup Playoff format for its emphasis on starting scores, Rory McIlroy and Collin Morikawa offer a counterpoint by highlighting the format’s role in maintaining competitive balance and enhancing viewer interest. The differing opinions underscore the complexity of creating a playoff system that satisfies both the players and the audience. As the playoffs unfold, the debate over the format is likely to continue, reflecting the ongoing evolution of professional golf’s competitive structure.