Scottie Scheffler has etched his name alongside golf legend Tiger Woods, becoming only the second player to win the PGA Tour Player of the Year award for three consecutive seasons. The American world number one dominated the voting process, securing 91% of the vote from his fellow players to claim his third Jack Nicklaus Award.
Scheffler’s impressive season was marked by seven title wins, including a thrilling second Masters title at Augusta National in April. This achievement places him in elite company, with Rory McIlroy being the only other player to have won the award three times. However, Scheffler and Woods are uniquely positioned as the only two players to have secured the award for three consecutive years.
Scheffler acknowledges the inevitable comparisons to Woods, stating, “I think we’re always looking to compare somebody to Tiger Woods. I saw it a lot growing up, but there’s really only one Tiger – that’s just kind of it.” The 28-year-old Texan recognizes the significance of his achievement but remains humble, acknowledging the singular greatness of Woods.
Scheffler’s remarkable season was highlighted by his Masters victory, but he reserves special praise for his gold medal performance at the Paris Olympics. “I would say the nine holes that kind of stick out to me the most maybe would be the back nine at the Olympics,” Scheffler reflected. “The way that Teddy (caddie Teddy Scott) and I kind of finished off that tournament was pretty cool.”
Woods, 48, has won the award 11 times throughout his illustrious career, including five consecutive awards from 1999-2003 and three consecutive awards from 2005-2007. His record remains unparalleled, with Scheffler’s achievement serving as a testament to the enduring legacy of the golf legend.
