Initially, it was Rory McIlroy, then Jordan Spieth. Brooks Koepka stepped forward, and now Scottie Scheffler carries what could be deemed the Tiger crown. It’s a challenging role on many fronts. It’s not merely about winning but winning convincingly and consistently.
During the golden years at the turn of the millennium, Woods dominated, winning eight of his 15 majors in just four seasons, including the iconic Tiger Slam. His aura was overwhelming, leaving his competitors feeling defeated before even starting. Now, Scheffler is in the early stages of instilling a similar sense of inevitability among his rivals.
McIlroy, alongside Scheffler for the first two days, witnessed Scheffler’s relentless pursuit of excellence. Despite posting his best round of the week on day one, McIlroy finished five strokes behind Scheffler, who effortlessly carded a bogey-free 66.
Scheffler’s game has been consistently sharp this year, entering Augusta as the clear favorite and maintaining a one-shot lead going into the final day. As his opponents faltered under pressure, Scheffler remained composed, displaying a lethal combination of precision and putting prowess.
His partnership with Phil Kenyon and switch to a mallet putter have only enhanced his game, reminiscent of Woods’ ability to excel under pressure. Despite some early mistakes, Scheffler’s confidence never wavered, and he surged ahead with three consecutive birdies.
His dominance was evident on the daunting tenth hole, where a powerful drive and precise approach signaled to his competitors that victory was inevitable. Even as the pressure mounted, Scheffler’s steady play ensured a comfortable victory, leaving his peers in awe.
Comparisons to Woods are inevitable, with Scheffler showcasing similar attributes in his game. However, Scheffler’s impact on the sport’s cultural landscape may not reach the same heights as Woods’. Nonetheless, his commanding presence on the golf course is undeniable.
As Scheffler prepares for upcoming tournaments, including the RBC Heritage and the PGA Championship, he remains focused on the present, refusing to dwell on past successes or future expectations. For Scheffler, success lies in his unwavering commitment to excellence and letting the results speak for themselves.
