Xander Schauffele says it would be a ‘terrible’ idea to schedule big events in the fall

The PGA Tour’s FedEx Cup season concludes in late August each year, a strategic decision made to avoid clashing with the NFL’s dominant presence in the fall. While the Tour does host a series of events throughout the autumn, these tournaments often see many of the top players opting out, preferring to rest and recharge. This downtime has sparked discussions about alternative opportunities, including a potential international series that could involve top players through a collaboration between the PGA Tour and the LIV Golf League.

However, the feasibility of such an international series remains uncertain. The PGA Tour is currently engaged in ongoing negotiations with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, which backs LIV Golf. Details of these discussions have been kept tightly under wraps, leaving the golf world in suspense. If the sentiment of Xander Schauffele, a prominent PGA Tour player, reflects the general mood among his peers, the idea might not gain much traction.

Schauffele, speaking at the Tour Championship held at East Lake Golf Club, expressed his lack of enthusiasm for the concept. “Right now, it sounds terrible,” he remarked, likening the prospect to the dread he feels about attending his brother’s upcoming bachelor party amid his current focus on finishing the season strong. Schauffele is determined to perform well in the final stages of the season, hoping to earn a well-deserved break afterward.

Both Schauffele and World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler hinted at the fatigue that has accumulated over the long season as they prepare to wrap up their year. They eagerly anticipate a break before the new season kicks off in January in Hawaii. Schauffele, in particular, found it difficult to envision how additional golf events could fit into his schedule in the latter part of the year.

“I haven’t really given much thought to how I’d feel about playing in a series overseas in November or December, or even in October,” Schauffele admitted. “I’m already committed to playing in the Zozo Championship in Japan in late October, mainly because of my personal connection—my mother is from Japan. That’s the only event I plan to play during the offseason or, as some call it, the fall season. I’m excited about my trip to Japan; it always feels special to me.”

However, Schauffele was quick to point out that adding multiple events to his schedule during this time would be a significant challenge. The toll of the season, combined with the desire for rest and personal time, makes the idea of an international series less appealing to him and possibly to others in his position.