Rory McIlroy rates Scottie Scheffler’s 2024 season as “hard to top”

Rory McIlroy enters the 2024 2024 FedEx St. Jude Championship as the No. 3 player in the FedEx Cup standings. From the TPC Southwind, McIlroy offered a press conference where he answered a number of questions about his season and the upcoming playoffs.

One quote, however, stood out from the presser:

REPORTER: “Xander (Schauffele’s)  and Scottie ( Scheffler’s ) have both had historic years,  if you could choose to have one of those this year which one would you choose for yourself and why?”

RORY MCILROY: “Scottie’s I mean I think winning the Masters, an Olympic gold medal, um, winning whatever it is six times, um. that’s… yeah, it’s pretty hard to top that.”  

Rory McIlroy, currently ranked third in the FedEx Cup standings with two wins and six top-10 finishes, reflected on his season with a mixture of satisfaction and a desire for further improvement.

He acknowledged that while he has had a “pretty good year,” there is still room for improvement as the playoffs commence. This drive for excellence demonstrates the competitive nature of the sport and the high standards Rory McIlroy sets for himself.

A comparison of two seasons: Scottie Scheffler vs. Xander Schauffele

Rory McIlroy’s decision between Scottie Scheffler’s and Xander Schauffele’s seasons highlights the exceptional performances of these two golfers. Scheffler’s recent performance has been extraordinary, with six victories, including his secon title in a row at The Players Championship, as well as at the 2024 Masters Tournament.

Furthermore, Scheffler’s gold medal at the 2024 Summer Olympics cements his status as one of the leading players in the field.

Conversely, Schauffele has also demonstrated a noteworthy performance record, characterised by reliability and decisive contributions in major tournaments. Schauffele’s ability to remain a constant threat in every event he enters makes him a formidable competitor.

However, when Rory McIlroy was asked which season he would prefer to emulate, he indicated a preference for Scheffler’s, citing the remarkable combination of major victories and Olympic success as a benchmark that is challenging to surpass.

This comparison between the two players illustrates the varying routes to success in golf. While both Scheffler and Schauffele have had exceptional seasons, McIlroy’s preference for Scheffler’s achievements highlights the value placed on major championships and the growing significance of Olympic success in the sport.

Rory McIlroy’s Outlook on the 2024 Season

In addition to addressing the question of which season he would prefer, Rory McIlroy provided insights into his own performance and the challenges of maintaining high standards in professional golf. He openly addressed the delayed start to his season, noting that it wasn’t until April or May that he began to find his rhythm.

Notwithstanding this, his two victories and several near-misses have maintained his position in contention for the FedEx Cup, and he remains optimistic about his chances in the playoffs.

Rory McIlroy also provided feedback on the format of the FedEx Cup playoffs, expressing support for the current structure, which resets the field and ensures a level playing field for all competitors. He observed that under the previous format, Scottie Scheffler’s substantial advantage might have been insurmountable. However, the current system introduces excitement and drama to the final weeks of the season.

In discussing his experience at the Olympics, McIlroy highlighted the growing importance of the Games in the world of golf. He reminisced about the distinctive ambience in Paris and the thrill of competing on a global platform:

“It was very cool so I think to to play in that atmosphere and in that environment  um yeah I said it at the at the end of the tournament I you know I think the Olympic Games is going to mean more (…).”

McIlroy views the Olympics as an opportunity to further elevate the sport, and he anticipates the next editions in Los Angeles and Brisbane.

The Road Ahead: Rory McIlroy’s Playoff Aspirations

As the 2024 FedEx Cup playoffs approach, McIlroy’s focus is on transforming a “pretty good year” into a “very good year.” He acknowledged the challenge ahead, particularly with competitors like Scheffler and Schauffele in top form, but he remains determined to succeed.

McIlroy has a proven track record of rising to the occasion in previous playoff events, and he is a strong contender.

Ultimately, McIlroy’s insights on the careers of Scottie Scheffler and Xander Schauffele, as well as his own, provide insight into the mindset of a champion. His press conference at the FedEx St. Jude Championship was not just a routine media appearance; it was an insight into the unwavering pursuit of excellence that defines the careers of golf’s top professionals.

As the playoffs commence, all eyes will be on McIlroy as he strives to add another chapter to his distinguished career.