AUGUSTA, Ga. — As the 2025 Masters tournament looms, the excitement surrounding Xander Schauffele is palpable. This time last year, he was grappling with the label of an underachiever despite boasting an impressive record of 11 top-10 finishes and six top-5 finishes over seven years, all without a major victory. However, after clinching two majors in 2024 — the PGA Championship and the Open Championship — Schauffele has transformed the narrative of his career.
Now, he arrives at Augusta not as a player seeking his first major but as a confident contender aiming for a career grand slam. "I don't really wake up and feel more accomplished. I feel like the same guy," Schauffele stated, reflecting on his journey. "My dream is just to give myself another chance coming down the stretch. If I can get myself in a spot to win this thing, I feel pretty good about doing it." His confidence is evident, especially as he enters the media center as the first player to do so.
Schauffele’s rise has not come without its challenges. Earlier this year, he suffered a serious rib injury that sidelined him for about two months. "I've never really dealt with injury before, so I've never really been sidelined," Schauffele shared. "Sitting at home thinking all these thoughts, watching everyone else play golf and sort of fly by me, it's been very motivating." Despite the setback, he’s back in the game and eager to reclaim his place among the elite.
As he prepared for the Masters, Schauffele noted the motivation he felt watching fellow competitors like Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler excel during his recovery. "Just motivating," he said with a smile. "There's so many guys that have played at a really high level, and luckily I've learned that I can play at that level too." His recent performances have showcased his resilience, as he made all four cuts in the events leading up to the Masters, including a tie for 12th at the Valspar Championship.
Schauffele has a solid track record at Augusta National, with four top-10 finishes since 2019. His 2024 performance saw him finish 8th, while he finished tied for 10th in 2023 and third in 2021. His scoring average at the Masters stands at 71.38, ranking him 13th among all golfers with multiple starts since 2007. Furthermore, he has made six of seven cuts at Augusta, with half of his rounds played under par.
As the tournament progresses, Schauffele's odds to win the Masters are set at +1800, placing him sixth among the field and suggesting an implied probability of 5.3%. This positioning reflects the shift in perception regarding his capabilities after his recent successes. "Winning the Grand Slam was always a thought before I won any of them," Schauffele remarked, acknowledging the significance of his current standing.
His recent performances have shown promise, especially at the Valspar Championship, where he led the field in strokes gained: approach. Schauffele’s strategy has evolved as he adjusts to his recovery. "Just knowing that I want to get to a good place, maybe I freed myself up that week," he explained. "It turned into a really good week." His team advised him to take a cautious approach during his comeback, ensuring that he wouldn't risk further injury.
Despite being ranked No. 3 in the world behind McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler, Schauffele remains focused on his goals. "I think I know what I’m capable of when I’m feeling good, when I’m not thinking of anything but getting the ball in the hole," he stated confidently. His mindset has shifted from dwelling on his injury to envisioning his potential for success. "I’d like to think I feel similar. I don’t really wake up and feel more accomplished. I feel like the same guy," he reiterated.
Schauffele's journey is a testament to his resilience and determination. From being labeled an underachiever to a two-time major champion, his story is one of growth and ambition. As he approaches the Masters, the excitement is building not just for him but for fans who have witnessed his evolution. The stakes are high, and with the Masters title on the line, Schauffele is ready to seize the opportunity.
As the tournament unfolds, all eyes will be on Schauffele as he aims to add another prestigious title to his growing resume. With the confidence of a champion and the heart of a competitor, he is set to make his mark once again at Augusta.
