Fresh off a commanding victory at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, Scottie Scheffler is gearing up to defend his title and potentially clinch back-to-back wins at The PLAYERS Championship this week.
Ahead of his title defense, Scheffler addressed various topics with the media, but it was his candid remarks regarding disgruntled fans that caught his attention.
Responding to concerns about fans’ dissatisfaction with the PGA Tour, particularly regarding players defecting to LIV Golf, Scheffler didn’t mince words. “We’re continuing to grow what we’re doing, and what they’re doing is not really a concern to me,” he asserted. “If the fans are upset, then look at the guys that left. We had a Tour, we were all together, and the people that left are no longer here. At the end of the day, that’s where the splintering comes from.”
In his straightforward manner, Scheffler emphasized that the departure of players to other leagues is not within his sphere of concern. “We’re trying to do our best to create the best product for the fans, but we can’t control whether or not guys want to leave,” he remarked.
"If the fans are upset, then look at the guys that left."
Scottie Scheffler shares his thoughts on the current separation of men's professional golf. 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/vehA1irEYq
— Golf Digest (@GolfDigest) March 12, 2024
“If guys want to go take the money and leave, then that’s their decision. I’m not going to sit here and tell guys not to take hundreds of millions of dollars. If that’s what they think is best for their life, then go do it.”
Scheffler’s pragmatic stance on the issue is not only characteristic but also valid. As a PGA Tour player, his primary focus remains on the Tour’s progression and enhancing the sport’s popularity.
The former Texas Longhorn stands firmly behind the PGA Tour, acknowledging its role in his career success, with earnings totaling $49 million since 2020.
Scottie Scheffler’s unwavering commitment to the PGA Tour underscores his belief in the product it offers and his dedication to its growth.
Savannah Leigh Richardson contributes to golf coverage as a staff writer for SB Nation’s Playing Through. For more updates on golf, follow @_PlayingThrough on major social platforms, and connect with Richardson on Twitter @SportsGirlSL and Instagram @savannah_leigh_sports.
