AUGUSTA, Ga. — A video shows Tiger Woods hosting, with Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy demonstrating their different approaches to long iron shots. Both golfers, sponsored by TaylorMade, wear matching Nike gear in the promotional video.
McIlroy executes a perfect high fade with a 4-iron, landing it softly near the pin. Scheffler jokes about hitting his shot flatter, acknowledging McIlroy`s greater distance, before landing his own shot about 20 feet from the hole.
As the Masters approaches, Scheffler, a past champion at Augusta, and McIlroy, still seeking his first Masters win, are the top contenders. They have collectively won 10 events in the past year and have consistently placed in the top 10 in major championships since 2022.
Scheffler has secured two major wins in that period, while McIlroy is still pursuing another major title. McIlroy`s consistent high ranking, even at 35 and after 17 Masters appearances, highlights his enduring competitiveness but also his long major championship drought.
In the 2015 Masters, McIlroy finished strong after a slow start, shooting a 66 in the final round playing alongside Woods. He finished six shots behind the winner, Jordan Spieth.
Reflecting on that Masters, commentator Jim Nantz noted the anticipated rivalry between McIlroy and Spieth. However, in 2025, Scheffler has emerged as McIlroy`s main competitor, pushing McIlroy to elevate his game.
McIlroy admitted Scheffler`s dominance motivates him to improve. Scheffler acknowledged McIlroy`s competitive drive, especially considering McIlroy`s experience.
Scheffler claims his motivation is internal and not influenced by other players. He focuses on his own game and competitive spirit.
Bryson DeChambeau noted that golf is unique because players compete more against the course than each other. Golf tournaments, unlike team sports, naturally create competition without needing forced pairings or seedings.
This Masters highlights a natural connection between Scheffler and McIlroy, driven by their parallel successes. They`ve often been asked about each other, expressing mutual respect and a hint of envy. Their relationship is not a rivalry but a consequence of their high-level performance.
McIlroy praised Scheffler`s consistent bogey-free play, emphasizing his ability to execute the right shot consistently. Scheffler jokingly wishes he could drive the ball as far as McIlroy, but admires McIlroy`s free and relaxed playing style.
Scheffler has made winning the Masters look easy recently, while McIlroy`s repeated disappointments demonstrate the difficulty of winning this major.
McIlroy aims to approach this Masters like any other tournament, despite the external pressure and anticipation surrounding his quest for a green jacket.
Scheffler dismisses questions about pressure as defending champion, while McIlroy acknowledges and tries to manage the constant attention on his major drought. Despite the pressure, McIlroy`s consistent high-level play over the past decade is undeniable.
Scheffler recognizes McIlroy`s impressive longevity and consistent performance in a challenging sport.
Eventually, Scheffler will continue his career beyond McIlroy`s. However, for now, their dynamic is unique: Scheffler`s rise has spurred McIlroy, and McIlroy is now positioned to challenge Scheffler`s dominance.
While the Masters isn`t a direct match between them, their current form suggests that one of them could win, with the other playing a significant role in their narrative this week.
