There’s something deeply personal about the tools we rely on. Whether it’s a perfectly balanced kitchen knife or a pen that seems to never run out of ink, these items often become extensions of ourselves. In the world of golf, this kind of bond often exists between a player and their driver. After thousands of swings, a golfer’s driver becomes a trusted companion. So, when that relationship ends abruptly, it can feel like a major loss — the kind that forces a player to start over with a replacement that may not quite feel the same.
In professional golf, Scottie Scheffler continues to rise to the top, showcasing a level of dominance that’s capturing the attention of fans and fellow players alike. Two-time Masters winner Bubba Watson recently discussed Scheffler’s success, pointing out that while Scheffler is trending toward greatness, the journey isn’t over yet. According to Watson, achieving “GOAT” status will require many more victories. While Scheffler is performing at an elite level, Watson noted that real greatness comes with longevity and a career filled with wins — upwards of 80.
Watson specifically praised Scheffler’s outstanding performance during the 2024 season, including his success in a Vegas event that contributed to a total of nine wins for the year. He considered this one of the best seasons a golfer has had, especially in today’s competitive global landscape. Watson attributed this success to Scheffler’s unwavering focus and self-confidence. According to him, Scheffler remains completely locked into his game and trusts his instincts implicitly.
During the recent PGA Championship, Scheffler encountered a significant hurdle. His primary driver failed a USGA conformity test just before the tournament, meaning he had to replace it immediately. For a golfer, especially at that level, this is no small issue — it’s like losing a crucial part of your game. The driver, which he was deeply familiar with, had to be swapped out for a backup with limited preparation time.
Despite the setback, Scheffler maintained his composure and turned in a phenomenal performance. He finished the tournament 11-under par and secured victory by five strokes. His ability to adapt so quickly to the new driver — while under immense competitive pressure — highlighted his mental resilience. Even with a five-stroke lead heading into the final day, he didn’t relax. Instead, he spent hours fine-tuning his swing, working on his grip and alignment late into Saturday night.
This attention to detail paid off. Scheffler’s stats remained strong — he ranked fifth in Strokes Gained: Off-the-Tee and hit over 60% of fairways using the replacement driver. This consistency further demonstrated his capacity to stay calm and perform at the highest level, even when forced to make major changes to his equipment.
Another key to his success is the support system around him. Scheffler’s caddie, Teddy, who previously worked with Bubba Watson for 15 years, brings a wealth of experience and calmness during high-pressure moments. This kind of trusted partnership is invaluable when navigating difficult circumstances, such as last-minute equipment changes.
Scheffler’s performance at Quail Hollow not only added another major to his growing list of achievements but also reinforced why many see him as a potential all-time great. His calm under pressure, adaptability, and focus suggest he’s on the right path. However, the journey to true GOAT status still requires more milestones and major wins.
The question now being debated in golf circles is whether Scheffler’s combination of mental strength and technical excellence can truly elevate him to the ranks of golf’s greatest players. Many are watching to see if he continues this trajectory — and if his next chapter cements his place in the sport’s history.