World No 1 Scottie Scheffler says he is unconcerned by the bookmakers’ backing as he heads into this week’s Open Championship at Royal Portrush in pursuit of a maiden Claret Jug.
Despite having never truly contended for the title in previous years, the American arrives in Northern Ireland riding another wave of exceptional form – including 10 straight top-10 finishes and three victories, one of which was his third career Major at the PGA Championship in May.
“I could not care any less about being the favourite or not being the favourite,” Scheffler told reporters on Tuesday. “We all start even par and the tournament starts on Thursday. That’s pretty much all that matters.”
Scheffler’s best Open result came last year when he finished T7, although his campaign at Royal Troon ended on a sour note with a topped tee shot on the 72nd hole that led to a closing double-bogey. Still, he has never missed a cut at golf’s oldest Major and feels confident his game suits the challenge.
“In terms of links golf, I love the style,” he said. “I think it’s really fun and you have to be creative. You have to hit a lot of really good shots. There’s a challenge to it, but I think it’s a lot of fun.”
The Texas native admitted that the week’s forecast could prove to be a decisive factor.
“We’ll see how the weather turns out this week. It has a pretty dramatic effect on how the golf course is going to play.”
Scheffler famously endured a slow start to the year after cutting his hand on a wine glass but has since bounced back in vintage fashion. Yet, he says he doesn’t set specific goals for wins or trophies.
“I don’t look at wins and losses or stuff like that,” he explained. “I don’t sit down at the beginning of the year and say I want to win X number of times, or this many Majors. That’s not something I do – that’s not something that works for me.”
The 28-year-old also claimed Olympic gold last year to go along with his nine worldwide victories, reinforcing his place as the most dominant force in the men’s game today.
Whether or not he adds a Claret Jug to his growing collection remains to be seen – but if he does, it won’t be because of the odds.
Photo: Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images
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