Scottie Scheffler Focuses on Internal Drive Ahead of PGA Championship
Scottie Scheffler dismissed any notions of a rivalry with Rory McIlroy as he prepares for the PGA Championship. Scheffler, who finished as runner-up in his last three PGA Tour events, emphasized that his motivation comes from within rather than from competing against the world No. 2. Scheffler is the first player since Sergio Garcia in 2014 to achieve three consecutive runner-up finishes on the PGA Tour. He has frequently faced McIlroy in various competitions, including the singles at the 2025 Ryder Cup, but the two have yet to compete in the final group of a major championship. Despite a successful 2025 season with six victories, including the PGA Championship and The Open, Scheffler has only secured one win this year. He reflected on his recent performances, stating, "Finishing second in a golf tournament is not bad, but it's a little bittersweet." Key highlights from Scheffler's thoughts include: Internal Motivation: "My sources of motivation have always been internal." Focus on Improvement: He prefers to concentrate on his own game rather than others’ successes. Bittersweet Finishes: Although second place is respectable, he acknowledges the pain of not winning. Rory McIlroy praised Scheffler's relentless pursuit of excellence, noting his consistent performance and strong work ethic. McIlroy remarked, "It's his relentlessness... he dots his i's and crosses his t's and does all the right things." As Scheffler aims to defend his title at the PGA Championship, he remains focused on his personal journey in the sport, eager to improve and compete at the highest level.
Source: Sky Sports - 2026-05-13