Scottie Scheffler bursts bubble around team aspect of Olympics golf, says he doesn’t see Xander Schauffele and others outside practice rounds
World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler revealed that he doesn't really see his U.S. teammates outside of practice rounds at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Xander Schauffele, Wyndham Clark, Collin Morikawa, and Scheffler are representing Team USA in the ongoing golf event in Paris.
The American golfers, especially Schauffele and Scheffler, have been playing well and are in contention for a medal this week. Although they are representing the USA, the tournament is an individual event. Recently, Scheffler shared his thoughts on the team aspect at the prestigious games.
Following the second round of the Paris Olympics on Friday, August 2, Scheffler admitted that the team usually meets during practice sessions. After that, they generally don't see each other as everyone leaves to prepare for their game the next day.
Speaking of his teammates and practice sessions, Scheffler said (via ASAP Sports):
"Outside of the practise rounds, I would say not really. The practise rounds, all playing together, that was the biggest team aspect. Once the tournament starts, I think it's best for us to stick to our normal routines and that's what we've been doing this week.
"You know, guys are not going to stick around and cheer me on on 18 because they have to get home and get ready for their round tomorrow, you know what I mean. So yes, we are coming over as a team, but I think what's best for our team is if all of us individually play really well," he added.
Notably, Xander Schauffele and Scottie Scheffler got off to a good start at the Paris Olympics. After two rounds, they secured spots in the top 10, with Schauffele currently in the lead. This is the second time Schauffele has competed in the Olympics; he previously won a gold medal at the delayed 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
Meanwhile, Scottie Scheffler is making his Olympics debut in 2024. Both players have enjoyed a successful season on the PGA Tour this year with impressive finishes. They have been in good form and are top contenders to win a medal this week.
Scottie Scheffler and Xander Schauffele lead Team USA's charge in Paris 2024
Xander Schauffele and Scottie Scheffler have had a strong start at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Schauffele began his campaign with an impressive round of 65, placing him in second after the first round. He followed up with a 66 in the second round, tying for the lead with Tommy Fleetwood and Hideki Matsuyama.
Meanwhile, Scottie Scheffler shot a 67 in the opening round and a 69 in the second, settling into a tie for 10th place. He will tee off in the third round five strokes behind the leaders.
Collin Morikawa carded a 70 in the first round and then shot 68 on Friday, moving up to a tie for 19th position on the leaderboard.
Meanwhile, Wyndham Clark had a rough start with a 75 in the first round but rebounded with a 68 in the second round, climbing 14 spots to take 46th place. The event will conclude with the final round on Sunday, August 4.