‘They would grow as people…’ Horschel fires message to Scheffler and other PGA Tour stars

Billy Horschel has called on his fellow PGA Tour stars, including Scottie Scheffler and Xander Schauffele, to broaden their horizons by competing more frequently outside the United States. According to Horschel, such experiences can help players grow not only in their golfing careers but also as individuals.

At 37, Horschel has set an example by embracing the global nature of golf. This week, he traveled from Florida to Dubai to participate in the season-ending **DP World Tour Championship** at Jumeirah Golf Estates. The event marks his eighth appearance on the 2024 DP World Tour calendar—a commitment far surpassing most of his American peers.

### A Season of Global Golf

Horschel’s packed schedule included three of the four majors (he missed The Masters), alongside tournaments such as the Genesis Scottish Open, BMW PGA Championship, Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, and Open de France. He capped the season with a second victory at the BMW PGA Championship, defeating Rory McIlroy at Wentworth, and achieved a career-best T2 finish at *The 152nd Open*. These accomplishments highlight his belief that competing globally has elevated his game and shaped his character.

In contrast, World No.1 Scottie Scheffler played just two tournaments outside the U.S. this season: *The Open* in Scotland and the Olympics in France, where he won gold. Meanwhile, World No.2 Schauffele and other top-ranked Americans like Collin Morikawa and Patrick Cantlay also limited their appearances in international events, citing the lucrative purses on the PGA Tour as a factor.

### Horschel’s Perspective on Global Growth

When asked about the reluctance of his American peers to travel, Horschel expressed both understanding and disappointment:
*”I don’t fault the guys in America. The PGA Tour’s financial success means they don’t have to travel, but I believe they would grow as people and players by experiencing different cultures and competing globally,”* he said.

Horschel credits playing in international tournaments, especially on links courses in the U.K., with improving his performance in challenging conditions. Moreover, he emphasized the personal benefits of engaging with diverse cultures and languages:
*”It’s made me a better person. Trying to communicate with people who may not speak English fluently or navigating new environments broadens your perspective. It’s something I encourage everyone to experience.”*

### The Road Ahead

Horschel’s commitment to the DP World Tour sees him ranked fourth in the season-long standings entering the $10 million DP World Tour Championship. However, he is out of contention for the **Race to Dubai title**, which remains a battle between Rory McIlroy and Thriston Lawrence. McIlroy seeks a record-tying sixth Race to Dubai crown, with Lawrence needing a win and McIlroy to finish outside the top 10 to claim victory.

As the debate about the value of global competition continues, Horschel stands firm in his belief that stepping outside one’s comfort zone benefits both the individual and the game. His message to his peers is clear: expanding their horizons could yield rewards beyond trophies and rankings.

For now, all eyes are on the Earth Course in Dubai, where Horschel and his contemporaries will vie for a share of the $10 million purse and the chance to end their seasons on a high note.

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