Scottie Scheffler Faces Tall Task To Dominate Like Tiger Woods Despite Solving Putting Problem

World No.1 golfer Scottie Scheffler reflects on his recent successes and the daunting challenges ahead despite overcoming a significant weakness in his game. In 2023, Scheffler showcased exceptional ball-striking prowess, boasting an adjusted scoring average of 68.63, the seventh-lowest in PGA Tour history, rivaling the legendary Tiger Woods.

Leading in nine different statistical categories, including greens in regulation and strokes gained off the tee, Scheffler’s Achilles heel remained putting, where he ranked a modest 162nd out of 193 players. However, inspired by advice from World No.2 Rory McIlroy, Scheffler made the switch to a mallet putter, culminating in a commanding five-shot victory at the Arnold Palmer Invitational.

This triumph has sparked speculation about Scheffler’s potential to dominate the sport for years to come, with anticipation building ahead of his bid to defend the Players Championship title, an unprecedented feat in the tournament’s history.

Reflecting on the prospect of sustained dominance, Scheffler acknowledges the lofty standard set by Tiger Woods, who reigned supreme in golf for over two decades. He draws parallels to other sports, citing the captivating era of NBA star Steph Curry and the Golden State Warriors, where despite some viewers growing weary of dominance, the allure of greatness remains irresistible.

Despite recognizing the wealth of talent in professional golf, Scheffler maintains that achieving sustained dominance is a formidable task. He recalls past periods of individual excellence from players like Jordan Spieth, Justin Thomas, and Rory McIlroy, yet underscores Woods’ unparalleled reign from 1997 to 2020 as the epitome of golfing dominance.

As Scheffler prepares to navigate the challenges of maintaining his momentum on the course, the golfing world eagerly anticipates witnessing the evolution of a potential new era, while acknowledging the enduring legacy of Tiger Woods in the annals of the sport’s history.