Scottie Scheffler’s victory at the 2024 Masters seemed all but predestined, given his dominance in the golfing world. With over 80 weeks at the top spot in the rankings and a string of eight PGA Tour victories since February 2022, including consecutive wins at the Players Championship, Scheffler had solidified his status as the sport’s next generational star.
Despite having only one major championship under his belt prior to this Masters, doubts about his prowess were swiftly dispelled as he entered the final round leading by a shot.
During the climactic final round at Augusta National Golf Club, Scheffler’s performance was nothing short of spectacular. With a composed 4-under 68, he surged ahead, finishing the tournament at 11 under par and clinching his second green jacket in three years.
His nearest contender, Ludvig Åberg, an amateur just a year ago, fell short by four strokes despite an impressive 3-under 69 in the final round. Max Homa, Collin Morikawa, and Tommy Fleetwood trailed further behind, tying for third place at 4 under.
Scheffler’s triumph at the age of 27 marked him as the fourth-youngest golfer to claim multiple green jackets, joining the esteemed company of Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, and Seve Ballesteros. His achievement was further highlighted by the fact that he needed only five starts at Augusta National to secure his second title, a feat second only to Horton Smith in the tournament’s history.
Reflecting on his victory, Scheffler attributed his success to a combination of consistent performance and emotional maturity on the golf course. Despite his stellar record in recent weeks, he remained grounded and focused on the present, rather than dwelling on past accomplishments. Scheffler’s caddie, Ted Scott, echoed the sentiment, marveling at his versatility and lack of apparent weaknesses in his game.
The final round saw Scheffler navigate challenges with composure, making crucial birdies on the back nine to solidify his lead and quash any doubts about the outcome. Even a brief scare with a neck injury couldn’t deter him as he maintained his focus on the ultimate prize. As competitors faltered under pressure, Scheffler’s steady performance underscored his dominance and cemented his place among golf’s elite.
With his victory secured, Scheffler acknowledged his impending fatherhood and the shifting priorities in his life. While family would now take precedence, his love for competing remained undiminished. As he celebrated with his wife, Meredith, and anticipated the birth of their first child, Scheffler’s unwavering commitment to the sport hinted at more triumphs to come, ensuring his place in golfing history for years to come.
