Bubba Watson compares himself to Jack Nicklaus with Scottie Scheffler claim

Bubba Watson Credits LIV Golf for Scottie Scheffler’s Record Earnings on PGA Tour

Two-time Masters champion Bubba Watson has credited LIV Golf for the significant earnings Scottie Scheffler has amassed on the PGA Tour in recent years. Watson, known for his candidness, believes that LIV Golf has played a pivotal role in reshaping the financial landscape of professional golf, ultimately benefiting players like Scheffler.

Scheffler burst onto the scene with his first PGA Tour victory at the 2022 WM Phoenix Open, where he claimed a winner’s cheque of $1,476,000. Since then, he has become an unstoppable force in the world of golf, securing two Masters titles, multiple PGA Tour wins, and even a gold medal. As of now, Scheffler’s on-course earnings, excluding bonuses, stand at an impressive $70,713,920. In 2024 alone, Scheffler has earned more than $28,000,000.

When asked about LIV Golf’s impact on the sport, Watson was quick to highlight its positive influence. “We’ve changed the face of golf,” Watson said during a recent press conference. “This is an exciting time for the sport. When I decided to join LIV, I considered the 10-year plan, and it has exceeded my expectations. We’ve not only met our goals but have also been part of a historic transformation in golf. It’s special to be on this side of history.”

Watson went on to draw parallels between the current shift in men’s golf and the 1968 breakaway of the PGA Tour from the PGA of America, which was led by legends like Jack Nicklaus. “Years ago, when the PGA Tour made that same decision—I’m talking about the ’50s, ’40s, or whenever Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus initiated that other tour—we’re now a part of that legacy. It’s an honor and a privilege to say I’m a part of it.”

Regarding Scheffler, Watson emphasized the impact of LIV Golf’s changes on the player’s financial success. “Scottie Scheffler has earned a lot of money this year because of the changes we’ve helped implement. I believe golf is moving in the right direction, and I think team golf is here to stay. I’m excited about the upcoming events, the next few years, and I hope the RangeGoats can finally beat the Crushers.”

As the golf world continues to evolve, the influence of LIV Golf and its impact on players’ earnings and the overall direction of the sport will remain a hot topic of discussion. Watson’s comments highlight the ongoing shifts in professional golf and the new opportunities emerging for players across the board.