Scottie Scheffler’s Support for Brooks Koepka
Scottie Scheffler expressed his support for Brooks Koepka’s return to the PGA Tour in January, emphasizing its positive impact on fans, sponsors, and the sport itself. Four months later, during a round at TPC Craig Ranch, Scheffler shared a more personal insight that carried significant weight beyond the usual press conference remarks.
“Yeah, I felt like I was getting lapped out there for a little bit,” Scheffler remarked, indicating the competition’s intensity.
Both Scheffler and Koepka maintain a strong mutual respect, having played together on the Ryder Cup teams in 2021 and 2023. In fact, Scheffler advocated for Koepka’s inclusion on the 2023 Ryder Cup team, suggesting that had Koepka participated in even one PGA Tour event, his point total would have been sufficient. In 2026, Scheffler celebrated Koepka’s return, expressing enthusiasm about competing against him, a sentiment that Koepka reciprocated.
Koepka has praised Scheffler’s talent, noting that just being around him provides ample learning opportunities due to Scheffler’s impressive execution on the course. Koepka admitted that watching Scheffler rekindled his passion for the game.
Scheffler’s recognition of his position in the competition became clear during the CJ Cup Byron Nelson, where Koepka set the pace with an impressive 8-under 63. Despite Scheffler’s 5-under 66, he felt pressure as the group dynamic resembled match play, necessitating strong performances just to keep pace. “I feel like sometimes in these tests…once you start getting behind, it can be difficult to catch up,” he noted.
Looking back, Scheffler had previously won the event with a remarkable 31-under 253. He emphasized the challenge this year, given the high scoring environment at TPC Craig Ranch and Koepka’s strong showing. Koepka’s journey back to the PGA Tour has been arduous, transitioning from LIV Golf and facing financial penalties upon his return, while battling personal frustrations.
Koepka’s Impressive Start
Significantly, Koepka hasn’t recorded a bogey-free opening round of 63 or better since the 2019 PGA Championship. His current form suggests he might be returning to that winning mentality, a fact that both competitors and fans are eager to witness as the tournament progresses.
