Xander Schauffele’s comments about Scottie Scheffler speak volumes
Xander Schauffele and Scottie Scheffler have emerged as the dominant figures in the world of golf in 2024, each making a significant mark on the sport. Their stellar performances this year have not only showcased their incredible talent but also highlighted the mutual respect they have for each other. Schauffele’s remarks about Scheffler, especially in the lead-up to Scheffler’s Olympic gold medal win in Paris, underscore the high regard in which he holds his fellow American golfer.
As the Tokyo Olympics gold medalist in 2021, Schauffele was a significant presence in the golfing world, but in 2024, Scheffler has managed to capture the spotlight with remarkable achievements of his own. Scheffler clinched the Olympic gold in Paris, narrowly edging out Team GB’s Tommy Fleetwood by just one shot. This victory was a testament to Scheffler’s exceptional skill and consistency, further cementing his status as one of the sport’s leading players. His win followed a series of impressive performances, including triumphs at both the Masters and the Paris Olympics.
Schauffele, who has also been in exceptional form this year, underscored Scheffler’s dominance when discussing his own accomplishments. Despite winning two major tournaments in 2024—the PGA Championship and The Open—Schauffele made it clear that he views Scheffler as the golfer to beat. When asked if his own major victories had altered the perception of Scheffler’s recent dominance, Schauffele quickly dismissed the notion. In an interview with the Daily Mail, Schauffele remarked, “I always say this but Scottie is on top of this mountain and he is way ahead of us climbing up on the side.” This statement highlights Schauffele’s acknowledgment of Scheffler’s superior position in the golfing world.
Looking ahead, Schauffele has his sights set on achieving a career grand slam, a rare and prestigious accomplishment in the sport of golf. Only five players in history, including legends like Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus, have achieved this feat. Schauffele is already halfway to completing this grand slam, having won the Masters and the US Open. He expressed his aspirations with enthusiasm, noting the significance of this goal in his career. “The career slam has always been written down as something I’ve wanted,” Schauffele said. “Getting to two after not having one for such a long time is something that feels really good.” He continued, reflecting on his journey, “Expectations can be a mean thing and I think all people in sport have a certain amount of cortisol in the body. You stress, you get anxious, have hard times. I have.”
For Schauffele, reaching this milestone is a meaningful reminder of his early ambitions and the dreams he set for himself. “I have been writing this stuff down with my dad since I was 13 or 14—number one player in the world, majors, all these things,” he said, recalling the days when these goals seemed distant but achievable.
In a broader context, the discussion of the career grand slam has included predictions from other golfing greats. Tiger Woods, who accomplished his own career grand slam in 2000, has speculated on the future of this prestigious achievement. While Woods expressed confidence that a sixth player will join the exclusive club, he pointed to Rory McIlroy as a likely candidate. McIlroy, who is just one major short of completing his career grand slam, needs to win the Masters to achieve this goal. Woods commented on McIlroy’s potential, saying, “No question, he’ll do it at some point. Rory’s too talented, too good. He’s going to be playing this event for a very long time. He’ll get it done. It’s just a matter of when.”
Woods further elaborated on McIlroy’s abilities, stating, “I think Rory will be a great Masters champion one day, and it could be this week. You never know. I just think that the talent he has, the way he plays the game and how the golf course fits his eye, it’s just a matter of time.” This endorsement from Woods highlights the consensus in the golf community regarding McIlroy’s talent and potential.
In summary, Schauffele’s comments about Scheffler and his own ambitions for a career grand slam reflect the competitive and respectful nature of modern golf. As both Schauffele and Scheffler continue to excel, their achievements and mutual admiration set a high standard for excellence in the sport. The pursuit of historic milestones and the recognition of each other’s accomplishments illustrate the dynamic and evolving nature of golf at its highest levels.
