"He was stiff at the Masters, at THE PLAYERS" - Xander Schauffele says Scottie Scheffler’s potential injury is a 'bad sign for everyone else'

By Rohit Yadav

Modified Aug 23, 2024 15:27 GMT

PGA: Masters Tournament - First Round - Source: Imagn — Scottie Scheffler and Xander Schauffele (Image via Imagn)

Xander Schauffele is currently competing at the 2024 BMW Championship. The second of three playoffs is being played at Castle Pines Golf Club in Castle Rock, Colorado.

Schauffele carded a 69 in the tournament's first round, positioning him in a tie for seventh place. He scored four birdies throughout the round, including on the 6th, 8th, 15th, and 17th holes, while dropping a bogey on the par-4 13th. Schauffele currently holds the second spot in the FedExCup standings, trailing only Scottie Scheffler. Scheffler carded a 71 in the first round of the BMW Championship and found himself tied for 15th.

In the post-round press conference, Schauffele was asked if he had noticed any issues with Scheffler's back. Here's what he said in response (via ASAP Sports):

"I mean, not really. I don't even know if he's having issues with his back. Is that what he said to you?"

Scheffler had said that he felt sore and tight throughout the day, and it became difficult for him to execute his shots during the first round, particularly on the 17th hole. When told about it, Schauffele said:

"Yeah, there was a few times -- maybe when he turned his head a few times he looked a little stiff. He was stiff at the Masters, at THE PLAYERS and had to get worked on all those times. I guess it's a bad sign for everyone else."

Scheffler and Schauffele have been the standout performers of the 2024 PGA Tour season. Both have showcased exceptional play throughout the year, with Scheffler claiming six wins, including a Major championship, and Schauffele securing two victories, both in Major tournaments. Scheffler currently leads the FedExCup standings with 6,533 points, while Schauffele follows closely in second place with 5,037 points.

Xander Schauffele said that he's saving his energy for the 2024 Tour Championship

In the post-round press conference at the 2024 BMW Championship, Xander Schauffele was questioned about his thoughts regarding the upcoming week. The final of the FedExCup playoffs, i.e., the Tour Championship, will be played next week from August 29 to September 1. Here's what the 30-year-old said, according to the aforementioned source:

"I mean, while I'm playing, not as much. I think in preparation, training-wise, sort of practicing-wise, rest-wise, I think a lot. Everything I'm doing is to try and make sure I'm geared up and as fresh as I can be for next week."

Schauffele also mentioned that many of the players who have secured their place in the Tour Championship are conserving their energy for the upcoming tournament, including himself. He said,

"I don't think you'll see me this week or many guys this week -- the range is really nice, but unless you're trying to make that top 30, if you're in a decent spot for next week, you're just trying to rest up and save some energy. Unless you need to work on something to sort of get sharp."

Xander Schauffele is aiming to secure the Tour Championship and FedExCup title, following a remarkable 2024 season. He has already claimed two victories and achieved 13 top-10 finishes.

Let's take a look at Xander Schauffele's performances so far this year: