Scottie Scheffler: Things fade away over time

Before heading into a much-anticipated December exhibition that promises to stir the golf world, Scottie Scheffler has another team event to focus on — this time at Royal Montreal Golf Club. The World No. 1, who has enjoyed an exceptional season marked by victories at the Masters, the Players Championship, an Olympic gold medal, and his first FedEx Cup, is preparing for his second Presidents Cup, which kicks off on Thursday.

Scheffler was part of the U.S. team that triumphed in the 2022 Presidents Cup at Quail Hollow in Charlotte, North Carolina. That win extended the Americans’ dominance over the International team to nine consecutive victories. However, after a lackluster performance at the 2023 Ryder Cup in Rome, Scheffler is leading a squad determined to redeem itself in Montreal and avoid another disappointment in an away match.

Reflecting on his passion for representing the U.S., Scheffler said, “That’s probably why I was so emotional after the Olympics. I really take a lot of pride in playing for my country. I’ve had the privilege to do it a few times, and it always feels special. Coming here to foreign soil and competing for the Cup will be exciting.”

Despite being a central figure in the team, Scheffler emphasized that he’s more focused on his individual performance than taking on a leadership role. The U.S. team, which includes World No. 2 Xander Schauffele, major winners Collin Morikawa and Wyndham Clark, future Ryder Cup captain Keegan Bradley, and other American stars, appears to have the edge on paper.

“Honestly, it’s 0-0 right now,” Scheffler said, in his usual understated manner. “My goal is to go out in the first match, give it my best, and try to get a point for our team. I don’t really concern myself with whether we’re favored or not. My job is to win — and I’ll focus on getting that first point on Thursday.”

Scheffler also commented on his upcoming participation in a made-for-TV exhibition match in December, which will pair him with Rory McIlroy against LIV Golf’s Brooks Koepka and Bryson DeChambeau. The details of the match, expected to take place in Las Vegas, have not been finalized but are likely to resemble past editions of “The Match,” featuring professional golfers and celebrities.

“My manager handles most of those arrangements,” Scheffler explained. “When he initially mentioned it, I thought it sounded like fun. I’ve teamed up with Brooks and Bryson in Ryder Cups before, and while I haven’t partnered with Rory at the Ryder Cup, they’re both guys I miss competing against. It seemed like a fun opportunity when it all came together.”

Scheffler made it clear that he wasn’t the driving force behind organizing the PGA vs. LIV exhibition. He also downplayed any lingering tensions between PGA Tour players and those who defected to LIV Golf, stating that friendships remain mostly intact despite the past controversies.

“There are so many moving parts to this situation,” Scheffler said. “At first, when some guys were suing us, it was frustrating for those of us still on the PGA Tour. But over time, those feelings fade. I don’t think there’s much bad blood left.”

Scheffler’s presence in the U.S. team undoubtedly brings a level of inspiration, with younger players looking up to him for leadership. Sahith Theegala, one of Scheffler’s teammates, praised his passion and dedication.

“It’s really motivating to see how much it means to guys like Scottie,” Theegala said. “Everyone knows how much winning the Olympics meant to him. There’s no greater honor than playing for your country.”

As the Presidents Cup approaches, all eyes will be on Scheffler, who hopes to lead the U.S. team to another victory and cement his legacy as one of golf’s top competitors.