At 44, Adam Scott is at a stage in his career when many players begin to slow down or even retire from the PGA Tour. Nevertheless, he persists in exceeding expectations and competing at the highest level. This week at the BMW Championship, Scott has demonstrated exemplary performance by shooting rounds of 68 and 63 at Castle Pines Golf Club, leading by three strokes at the end of the third round.
A victory in this tournament would be significant for two reasons. First, it would mark his first win since 2020. Second, it would propel him from 41st to 4th in the FedEx Cup points standings.
During Friday’s press conference, Adam Scott was asked to comment on the low number of PGA Tour winners over the age of 40. He responded thoughtfully and directly, stating:
“I think it’s hard to get a lot better in your 40s, and there are a lot of 20-year olds getting better. I just think there are probably a lot of 40 plus guys dropping off the TOUR. There are a lot of mid 20s coming on the TOUR taking their place.”
“Whether it’s just life or whether it’s physical at this age or mental, it’s hard to keep pace with what the younger guys are doing, from hitting the ball at a speed that’s competitive to practicing enough to having the motivation and the drive to do it. I think it’s harder for the older guys.”
When asked if he felt like a 40-year-old player, Adam Scott replied with a smile:
“Yep. Most guys remind me every day”
Despite his age, Adam Scott has demonstrated remarkable performance in recent years. He has made 15 cuts in 17 events this year and has achieved consistent results in recent tournaments, maintaining a position within the top 50 of the FedEx Cup Rankings. This has secured his participation in the most significant events next year.
Adam Scott was also asked if his ranking in the top 50 for next season would have alleviated some of the pressure he was facing and if this influenced his performance. He responded:
“No, I didn’t think I played aggressive, because like I said, I was going to the course not feeling like I was on today. It’s probably something to think about, as well. I played within myself. I picked fairly conservative targets.”
“But it was a good day to be aggressive when you had the right number, like on 16. There were a couple other holes where I had wedges or shorter clubs where I brought it in close because the greens were soft and receiving. I didn’t play overly aggressive, but I think I executed well, and I putted very well today”.
The Potential Impact of an Adam Scott’s Victory
Securing the BMW Championship would not only mark Adam Scott’s 15th PGA Tour title but also serve as a testament to his ability to compete and succeed at the highest level, despite being 44 years old. This victory would be particularly noteworthy as it would make him the oldest player to win a tournament on the PGA Tour this year.
Second place is just one stroke behind Keegan Bradley by one strokes, which provides an excellent opportunity for him to secure the title. However, Adam Scott is aware that there is still a great deal at stake, particularly with talented players like Ludvig Aberg and Alex Noren in close pursuit. Nevertheless, his experience and ability to handle pressure in situations like this could be his best assets in securing victory.
In addition to the possibility of winning the tournament, this success would have a considerable impact on Scott’s FedEx Cup Ranking. He is currently ranked 41st, but a win would launch him directly into fourth place, which would not only secure him a spot in the Tour Championship, but also give him an excellent position to compete for the FedEx Cup.