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AUGUSTA, USA: Masters champion Scottie Scheffler won his second straight victory at Augusta National Golf Club on Sunday and once again demonstrated his remarkable ability to stay focused and calm before revealing his ruthless side.
Scheffler’s low-key personality and calm composure on the court have led many to speculate that he lives in what athletes call “the zone.”
Some observers believe the world No. 1’s Christian faith, combined with his simple approach to golf, goes a long way toward explaining why he was so relaxed on the back nine of the Masters on Sunday.
But after putting on the green jacket again, Scheffler admitted that he was driven by a strong sense of competition.
“I love winning and hate losing. Really,” he said. “When you’re up here in the biggest moment, when I’m leading on Sunday, I really, really want to win.”
Scheffler is always happy to talk about his Christian faith, but his words show that while he doesn’t want his identity to be defined by results, he can’t escape his fierce determination to win.
“I believe the plans for today were made many years ago, and there is nothing I can do to disrupt those plans. I was given this gift, and I’m going to use it to glorify God. That’s it,” he said.
American Scottie Scheffler celebrates in his green jacket and trophy after winning the Masters.
“So when I’m out there, I’m going to play as hard as I can. Like I said, I really want to win. I feel like that’s just who I am. I’ve been like that since I was a kid. It’s always been a part of me, and I don’t think it’s going to go away anytime soon.
“I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that either,” he said.
Scheffler’s hunger has intensified, suggesting his current dominance of the sport — he has won three races this year — may not be a flash in the pan.
“I feel like I’m playing really well right now,” he said. “I feel like I’m more in control of my emotions than I ever have been, which is a good thing. I feel like I’m becoming more mature on the golf course, which is a good thing.
“I think it’s hard to argue with the last few weeks. I played well. But I really try not to focus too much on the past. This week I’m going to go home, reflect on the week and absorb it as best I can. It’s not a very satisfying exercise because I’m supposed to tee it up again on Thursday. Will be back in training soon,” he said.
Scheffler’s wife, Meredith, is due to give birth to their first child later this month.
He is looking forward to it but said he doesn’t think the sleepless nights will affect his performance at the next major, the Valhalla PGA Championship.
“I’m going to go home and enjoy my win tonight. I’m definitely going to enjoy the birth of my first child. But having said that, I still love the game.
“My priorities are going to change very quickly. Now, my son or daughter is going to be my priority, along with my wife, so golf is probably fourth now,” he said, before issuing a warning to his rivals.
“But I still love the game. I’m definitely not going to give it up anytime soon.” – AFP
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