Scottie Scheffler Claims Tour Championship Victory
Published by Bonnyton Golf Club in Golf News · Monday 02 Sep 2024 · 2:30
Scottie Scheffler capped off a stellar 2024 PGA Tour season by holding off Collin Morikawa to win the Tour Championship and claim the coveted FedExCup at East Lake. Scheffler, who entered the tournament with a two-shot lead, maintained his dominance throughout, finishing four strokes ahead of Morikawa and securing the $25 million jackpot.
This victory marked Scheffler’s seventh win on the PGA Tour this year, making him the first player since Tiger Woods to achieve such a feat in a single season. Scheffler’s final round at East Lake saw him navigate a rollercoaster of emotions, as his once-commanding seven-shot lead was briefly cut to just two. However, a trio of birdies around the turn helped him regain control, and he closed with a four-under 67 to finish the tournament at 30 under par.
Sahith Theegala also had a noteworthy performance, shooting a final-round 64 to secure third place. He finished ahead of notable players like Russell Henley, Adam Scott, and Xander Schauffele.
How Scheffler Secured the Title
Morikawa started the final day with a bogey, quickly falling seven shots behind Scheffler, who steadied himself with a par save and a birdie on the next hole. Despite a brief rally by Morikawa, which saw him close the gap to just two shots, Scheffler responded with precision. A wedge shot on the 10th and a 15-foot birdie putt on the 11th expanded his lead once more.
Even as Morikawa attempted to claw back with birdies on the 13th and 14th holes, Scheffler’s eagle at the 14th left little doubt about the outcome. Four pars on the final stretch secured his 13th PGA Tour title and a historic season, where he became the first player to win The Players, The Masters, and the Tour Championship in the same year.
Scheffler Reflects on His Journey
Reflecting on his journey, Scheffler acknowledged the challenges of the past two years at East Lake, where he had entered as the FedExCup leader but failed to secure the title. "To come in with a lead for the third time and be able to finish it off is definitely pretty sweet," Scheffler said. "I feel like I've lived almost a full lifetime in this one year."
Morikawa praised Scheffler’s mental toughness, noting his unwavering focus throughout the tournament. "It's amazing what he's been able to do this entire season," Morikawa remarked, highlighting the impressive consistency that has defined Scheffler’s last three years on the PGA Tour.
With this win, Scheffler not only solidifies his place as the world’s top golfer but also sets a new record for earnings in a single season, surpassing $60 million. His triumph at East Lake is a testament to his skill, resilience, and determination—a fitting end to a remarkable season.