World No.1 wins CJ Cup Byron Nelson with record-equalling score after watching the Ulsterman complete his career Grand Slam at the Masters
Scottie Scheffler has revealed he was “fired up” by watching Rory McIlroy’s Masters triumph after the world No.1 won his first title of the season. The Texan claimed his hometown event at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson by eight shots with the equal lowest 72-hole score in PGA Tour history. Scheffler shot a closing 63 to finish on 31-under par 253 for his first regular Tour win since last June.
McIlroy revealed he had been inspired to raise his game this year after Scheffler won eight titles in 2024.
And asked if the Ulsterman’s wins at The Players and Augusta had motivated him, the American said: “I think any time somebody has beaten any of us out here, I think we’re all , you could say inspired, but I think we’re all fired up to come out here and compete.
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“I think that’s what’s great about our game. Week in and week out, we get to come out here and compete. This week I was the best player. I have the week off, and we’ll see the week after who is the best player at the PGA.
“Rory has been playing some tremendous golf this year. The career Grand Slam was really special to watch. I was glad to be able to be there for it. I think any time you’re getting beat, you’re always fired up just a little bit extra to go out and practice.
“I feel like my game is trending in a good direction. I’m excited to start the rest of the season.”
Scheffler will return to action against McIlroy at the US PGA at Quail Hollow in North Carolina – a venue where the Ulsterman has won four times – next week.
In Texas, Scheffler tied the lowest 72-hole total first recorded by Justin Thomas at the 2017 Sony Open and again by Ludvig Åberg at the 2023 RSM Classic. Hideki Matsuyama won The Sentry in January with a score of 35-under par 257 – a PGA Tour record in relation to par.
Runner-up Eric Rooyen shot a closing 63 but still finished eight shots behind the winner. “Scottie was practically flawless, which is kind of what you expect from the world No. 1.,” he said. “There’s nothing you can do. Absolute hat’s off to Scottie. He’s played fantastic golf.”
Scheffler, 28, fought back tears in his post-round interview watched by his wife Meredith and young son Bennett. He had missed the event last year for his son’s birth.
“When I think about this tournament, I think about a lot of different stuff,” Scheffler said. “This story means a lot to me.
“I grew up coming to watch it. This was my first start on the PGA Tour when I was in high school. The girl I was dating at the time is now my wife. We have one son. My sister was caddying for me at the time. She was here today. She has two kids.
“My family was all able to be here, and it was just really, really special memories, and I think at times it all comes crashing down to me at once.”