Scottie Scheffler: victory for the ‘pre-eminent golfer of this era’

Scottie Scheffler, the reigning top-ranked golfer globally and a heavy favorite going into this year’s Masters, had more than just his game on his mind as he teed off. With his wife, Meredith, heavily pregnant and due to go into labor at any moment, Scheffler made a solemn promise: if she went into labor during the tournament, he would leave the course regardless of his standing. Some things, he emphasized, mattered more than golf, with the birth of his first child being one of them. Despite the looming possibility of becoming a father at any moment, Scheffler remained focused on his game and showcased his unparalleled skills throughout the tournament.

Entering the final day with a narrow one-shot lead, Scheffler faced stiff competition, with the outcome of the tournament uncertain for much of the gripping finale. However, he rose to the occasion, thwarting each challenge to his lead with nerves of steel. Finishing the tournament with a commanding four-shot lead at 11 under, Scheffler capped off his performance with a nerveless 68, displaying his prowess with three birdies in the final six holes. With his second victory at Augusta National in three years, Scheffler solidified his status as the pre-eminent golfer of the current era.

Comparisons with golfing legend Tiger Woods are no longer far-fetched, given Scheffler’s current dominance in men’s golf. While his two Masters victories are his only major titles thus far, Scheffler has amassed an impressive nine titles since February 2022, including a historic back-to-back win at the Players Championship in Florida. Even in events where he doesn’t clinch victory, Scheffler consistently finishes among the top contenders, showcasing unparalleled consistency. His formidable all-around game, coupled with an uncanny ability to remain composed under pressure, has often been attributed to his unwavering faith. At just 27 years old, Scheffler’s calm demeanor in high-stakes moments has earned him comparisons to a statue, unfazed by any external distractions.

The Masters also witnessed a remarkable breakout performance from 24-year-old Swedish golfer Ludvig Åberg, who made his major debut. Despite his relative inexperience on the grand stage, Åberg displayed a remarkable level of composure and skill, finishing second with a stellar final-round score of 69. His cool and collected demeanor, characterized by a perpetual smile and hands-in-pockets stroll between holes, belied his status as a rookie on the biggest stage in golf. Notably, Åberg’s standout moment came with a breathtaking 36-foot birdie putt on the ninth hole, showcasing his talent and potential on the course. From his collegiate golf days just a year ago to seamlessly blending in among the elite at Augusta, Åberg’s emergence has sparked discussions about who might be the next best in golf, alongside the undeniable presence of Scheffler at the forefront of the sport.