Scheffler Vs Schauffele Vs McIlroy: How The Stats Compare

In 2024, Rory McIlroy acknowledged that Scottie Scheffler and Xander Schauffele had distanced themselves from the pack, with both players showcasing remarkable consistency and results. Scheffler, the World No.1, delivered an unprecedented year with eight victories, including The Masters and the Olympics, while Schauffele claimed two Major titles and demonstrated unmatched putting and scrambling skills.

McIlroy, despite a commendable season, struggled to keep pace, coming close but falling short in key moments like the US Open and BMW PGA Championship. The statistical breakdown shows McIlroy as a distant third in most categories, particularly in approach play and final-round scoring, where the gaps between him and his rivals were most apparent.

One area where McIlroy still leads is driving distance, showcasing his raw power. However, Scheffler’s historic performances in strokes gained and Schauffele’s precision in clutch moments underline why they dominated. McIlroy’s second-round scoring has also dipped significantly compared to his 2014 peak, indicating an area for potential improvement.

Furthermore, his inability to consistently capitalize on wedge opportunities has been a recurring issue, putting him at a disadvantage in scoring-critical situations. As McIlroy aims to close the gap in 2025, refining his approach play and sharpening his short game will be crucial to rejoining the elite at the top of the PGA Tour rankings.