Xander Schauffele is on course to beat Scottie Scheffler and break 40-year-old PGA Tour record this season
Xander Schauffele is having an exceptional season in 2024, a year that could potentially set him on a path to break a 40-year-old PGA Tour record for the lowest bogey rate. This impressive feat highlights the extraordinary level of play he has maintained throughout the year.
Schauffele’s performance this season has drawn significant praise from his peers, with many suggesting that his achievements might even surpass those of Scottie Scheffler, the reigning world number one. Viktor Hovland, a prominent figure in the golfing world, has specifically indicated that Schauffele’s 2024 season is preferable in terms of overall performance. Golf commentator Smylie Kaufman has also weighed in, noting that many professionals would likely prefer Schauffele’s double-major winning year over other notable campaigns.
As the 30-year-old American competes for the FedEx Cup, he is also on the verge of breaking a longstanding PGA Tour record. According to renowned golf stats expert Justin Ray, Schauffele’s current bogey rate stands at an impressive 9.2%, marking the lowest bogey rate in the last 40 seasons. This statistic underscores his remarkable ability to maintain a high level of consistency and precision on the golf course.
Schauffele’s skill in avoiding bogeys was particularly evident during his bogey-free opening round at the St. Jude Championship. Since then, he has added five more bogey-free rounds to his record, surpassing Scottie Scheffler in this category. This ability to avoid errors has been a crucial factor in Schauffele’s success, as demonstrated by his triumph at the Open Championship held at Royal Troon. His performance there highlighted his adeptness at steering clear of trouble, ultimately leading him to victory.
Looking ahead, Schauffele’s prospects at the Tour Championship are promising. His past performances at East Lake have consistently shown his capability to contend at this prestigious event, providing him with a significant confidence boost as the PGA Tour season draws to a close. Although he has been somewhat unlucky in securing the FedEx Cup despite his consistent presence in contention, Schauffele’s strong record at East Lake is likely to enhance his chances.
With only a few weeks left in the season, it is crucial for Schauffele to keep close to Scheffler in the standings. If he can maintain this proximity and head into the Tour Championship with the world number one within his reach, he has a solid opportunity to make a substantial impact on his earnings and secure one of the most coveted prizes in golf. The potential for Schauffele to achieve such a feat underscores the exceptional nature of his 2024 season and the high expectations surrounding his future performances.
