Unflappable American Scottie Scheffler claimed a second Masters title in three years on Sunday, the world number one holding steady while his biggest challengers self-destructed making their way through the infamous Amen Corner.

Scheffler, the Green Jacket winner in 2022, began the day with a one-stroke lead over twice major winner Collin Morikawa and posted a final round of four-under 68 to finish 11-under for the week, four clear of Swedish young gun Ludvig Aberg.

"I did my best to stay calm out there," said Scheffler, after becoming the 18th player to win the Masters multiple times. "I tried to stay patient on the course and was able to make some key shots and key putts today to keep my round going.

"Ludvig played great today. He made a good move at me there on the back nine and I was fortunate to hold him off towards the end."

Aberg closed with a 69 to take solo second spot and cap a sensational majors debut.

Morikawa, after tumbling down the leaderboard with double-bogeys at nine and 11, recovered with birdies at 13 and 15 to help secure a share of third place with American compatriot Max Homa and Britain's Tommy Fleetwood at four-under.

Scheffler, the red hot favourite coming into the year's first major, leaves Augusta National as the planet's undisputed best with three titles and a runner-up finish in his last four starts.

The performance was all the more remarkable as the 27-year-old played with the added distraction of knowing he might have to return home at any moment to be with his wife for the birth of their first child.

"It's a very special time for both of us," said Scheffler, before last year's winner, Spaniard Jon Rahm, slipped the Green Jacket on him. "I can't put into words what it means to win this tournament again.

"I really can't put into words what it's going to be like to be a father for the first time.

"I'm looking forward to getting home and celebrating with Meredith."

<h2>Amen&nbsp;Corner</h2>

It is said the Masters does not start until the back nine on Sunday, with many a Green Jacket won or lost with a trip through Amen Corner, the treacherous three-hole stretch that begins at the par four 11th.

The drama actually started a little earlier at the ninth this year where Scheffler had a tap in birdie, that he nearly holed out for an eagle, to lead by one heading into the turn.

All around Scheffler challengers were unravelling. Morikawa taking a double-bogey at nine to fall three shots off the pace.

As Scheffler was piling on the pressure with birdies at eight, nine and 10, Amen Corner bared its teeth to sink the hopes of three Green Jacket contenders - Aberg, Morikawa and Homa.

Aberg and Morikawa found water at 11, taking double-bogeys, while Homa suffered a double-bogey at the 12th after losing his ball in the bushes.

Even Scheffler could not escape Amen Corner unscathed, his run of three birdies ending with a bogey at 11.

But a birdie at 13 allowed Scheffler to walk away from Amen Corner at nine-under, holding a three-shot lead over Aberg with five to play.

Aberg, however, was not waving the white flag, undoing the damage done at the 11th with back-to-back birdies at 13 and 14 to stay in sight of the leader at two back.

But Scheffler did not take his foot off the gas either, answering with a tap-in birdie at 14 and another at 16 to seal the victory.

Hours before the leaders took to the stage the spotlight belonged to Tiger Woods, with massive galleries lining every hole from tee to green perhaps fearing this could be one of the last times to see the golfing icon at work.

Woods had Augusta buzzing when he claimed a record 24th consecutive made cut at Augusta National on Friday and then boldly predicted a sixth Green Jacket was in reach.

But the American great, who has conjured up a long list of magical Masters moments, could not produce another, enduring perhaps the most miserable weekend of his career.

The 48-year-old's injury-battered body appeared to quit on him Saturday as he carded a 10-over 82, his worst major round as a professional, and followed up on Sunday with a five-over 77.

Unflappable American Scottie Scheffler claimed a second Masters title in three years on Sunday, the world number one holding steady while his biggest challengers self-destructed making their way through the infamous Amen Corner.

Unflappable American Scottie Scheffler claimed a second Masters title in three years on Sunday, the world number one holding steady while his biggest challengers self-destructed making their way through the infamous Amen Corner. Scheffler, the Green Jacket winner in 2022, began the day with a one-stroke lead over twice major winner Collin Morikawa and posted a final round of four-under 68 to finish 11-under for the week, four clear of Swedish young gun Ludvig Aberg. "I did my best to stay calm out there," said Scheffler, after becoming the 18th player to win the Masters multiple times. "I tried to stay patient on the course and was able to make some key shots and key putts today to keep my round going. "Ludvig played great today. He made a good move at me there on the back nine and I was fortunate to hold him off towards the end." Aberg closed with a 69 to take solo second spot and cap a sensational majors debut. Morikawa, after tumbling down the leaderboard with double-bogeys at nine and 11, recovered with birdies at 13 and 15 to help secure a share of third place with American compatriot Max Homa and Britain's Tommy Fleetwood at four-under. Scheffler, the red hot favourite coming into the year's first major, leaves Augusta National as the planet's undisputed best with three titles and a runner-up finish in his last four starts. The performance was all the more remarkable as the 27-year-old played with the added distraction of knowing he might have to return home at any moment to be with his wife for the birth of their first child. "It's a very special time for both of us," said Scheffler, before last year's winner, Spaniard Jon Rahm, slipped the Green Jacket on him. "I can't put into words what it means to win this tournament again. "I really can't put into words what it's going to be like to be a father for the first time. "I'm looking forward to getting home and celebrating with Meredith." Amen Corner It is said the Masters does not start until the back nine on Sunday, with many a Green Jacket won or lost with a trip through Amen Corner, the treacherous three-hole stretch that begins at the par four 11th. The drama actually started a little earlier at the ninth this year where Scheffler had a tap in birdie, that he nearly holed out for an eagle, to lead by one heading into the turn. All around Scheffler challengers were unravelling. Morikawa taking a double-bogey at nine to fall three shots off the pace. As Scheffler was piling on the pressure with birdies at eight, nine and 10, Amen Corner bared its teeth to sink the hopes of three Green Jacket contenders - Aberg, Morikawa and Homa. Aberg and Morikawa found water at 11, taking double-bogeys, while Homa suffered a double-bogey at the 12th after losing his ball in the bushes. Even Scheffler could not escape Amen Corner unscathed, his run of three birdies ending with a bogey at 11. But a birdie at 13 allowed Scheffler to walk away from Amen Corner at nine-under, holding a three-shot lead over Aberg with five to play. Aberg, however, was not waving the white flag, undoing the damage done at the 11th with back-to-back birdies at 13 and 14 to stay in sight of the leader at two back. But Scheffler did not take his foot off the gas either, answering with a tap-in birdie at 14 and another at 16 to seal the victory. Hours before the leaders took to the stage the spotlight belonged to Tiger Woods, with massive galleries lining every hole from tee to green perhaps fearing this could be one of the last times to see the golfing icon at work. Woods had Augusta buzzing when he claimed a record 24th consecutive made cut at Augusta National on Friday and then boldly predicted a sixth Green Jacket was in reach. But the American great, who has conjured up a long list of magical Masters moments, could not produce another, enduring perhaps the most miserable weekend of his career. The 48-year-old's injury-battered body appeared to quit on him Saturday as he carded a 10-over 82, his worst major round as a professional, and followed up on Sunday with a five-over 77.

Scheffler takes Green Jacket after Amen Corner bares teeth

World number one Scottie Scheffler finished with back-to-back birdies to hold a share of the lead after the second round of the PGA Tour Pebble Beach Pro-Am on Friday.&nbsp;

Scheffler shot a bogey-free, eight-under-par round of 64 to share top spot on the leaderboard at 11-under with Belgian Thomas Detry and Sweden's Ludvig Aberg.

The American sank a 35-footer to make birdie on the par-3 17th and then followed up with an aggressive approach on the par-5 18th.

"Boring is always nice on the card, keeping a clean card is good," said Scheffler of his avoidance of bogeys on the historic Californian course.

"I felt like I didn't have to struggle for many pars. I kept the golf course in front of me, made some nice puts and hit some quality shots into the greens. I just gave myself a lot of opportunities," he said.

"I did not realize how much it rained overnight. It was really wet. So like on a lot of these back-to-front greens it's a big adjustment going from hitting a pitching wedge to hitting an 8-iron to try to take off spin," he added.

The soft, wet course encouraged players to attack the greens and Aberg certainly took that approach, following up a birdie on the first with an eagle on the par-5 second.

After a thumping 302-yard drive, the 24-year-old landed his approach 35 feet from the hole and sank his putt superbly.

Aberg was outstanding on the greens as he reached the turn on five-under and he added two more birdies on the back nine on the 11th and 14th.

"Obviously got off to a nice start with a couple of long putts, I don't remember the last time I did that, so obviously that's a little bonus. I felt like I kept playing quite well and kept being disciplined, so it was nice," said the Swede.

Aberg, who played college golf in the USA for Texas Tech and turned pro in June, picked up his first win on the PGA Tour in November at the RSM Classic, following up his win on the DP World Tour in Switzerland in September.

That month he grabbed global attention with his excellent performance in Europe's Ryder Cup win over the United States in Italy.

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<h2>Building on experience</h2>

Aberg said he would draw on those experiences as he searches for his second PGA Tour victory.

"I think any time that you get to win a tournament and feel those emotions coming on the last couple holes and being in the lead and trying to chase down the lead, there's always a lot that you can learn from that," he said.

"I don't try to get too high, not too low, and obviously the experiences that I had last year was a lot of good ones, try to keep building on that and see where that takes us over the weekend," he said.

Overnight leader Detry teed off on 10 and was three-under at the turn but was undone by bogeys on the fourth and fifth as he carded a two-under 70.

"I know my game is really solid, I've been playing some really good golf now for the last couple years, so all I have to do is really trust it and keep building on all these good rounds that I've done under pressure," said the Belgian, who challenged last week at Torrey Pines before a disappointing final two rounds.

Patrick Cantlay recovered from driving out of bounds on the 18th to make par and finish a stroke behind the leading trio after his two-under 70.

American Justin Thomas, who shot a five-under 67, Argentine Emiliano Grillo and France's Matthieu Pavon -- coming off his historic victory at Torrey Pines on Sunday -- were all two shots off the lead.

World number one Scottie Scheffler finished with back-to-back birdies to hold a share of the lead after the second round of the PGA Tour Pebble Beach Pro-Am on Friday.

World number one Scottie Scheffler finished with back-to-back birdies to hold a share of the lead after the second round of the PGA Tour Pebble Beach Pro-Am on Friday. Scheffler shot a bogey-free, eight-under-par round of 64 to share top spot on the leaderboard at 11-under with Belgian Thomas Detry and Sweden's Ludvig Aberg. The American sank a 35-footer to make birdie on the par-3 17th and then followed up with an aggressive approach on the par-5 18th. "Boring is always nice on the card, keeping a clean card is good," said Scheffler of his avoidance of bogeys on the historic Californian course. "I felt like I didn't have to struggle for many pars. I kept the golf course in front of me, made some nice puts and hit some quality shots into the greens. I just gave myself a lot of opportunities," he said. "I did not realize how much it rained overnight. It was really wet. So like on a lot of these back-to-front greens it's a big adjustment going from hitting a pitching wedge to hitting an 8-iron to try to take off spin," he added. The soft, wet course encouraged players to attack the greens and Aberg certainly took that approach, following up a birdie on the first with an eagle on the par-5 second. After a thumping 302-yard drive, the 24-year-old landed his approach 35 feet from the hole and sank his putt superbly. Aberg was outstanding on the greens as he reached the turn on five-under and he added two more birdies on the back nine on the 11th and 14th. "Obviously got off to a nice start with a couple of long putts, I don't remember the last time I did that, so obviously that's a little bonus. I felt like I kept playing quite well and kept being disciplined, so it was nice," said the Swede. Aberg, who played college golf in the USA for Texas Tech and turned pro in June, picked up his first win on the PGA Tour in November at the RSM Classic, following up his win on the DP World Tour in Switzerland in September. That month he grabbed global attention with his excellent performance in Europe's Ryder Cup win over the United States in Italy. ALSO READ | IND vs ENG: Kevin Pietersen backs Shubman Gill despite shaky form, compares to THIS legendary player Building on experience Aberg said he would draw on those experiences as he searches for his second PGA Tour victory. "I think any time that you get to win a tournament and feel those emotions coming on the last couple holes and being in the lead and trying to chase down the lead, there's always a lot that you can learn from that," he said. "I don't try to get too high, not too low, and obviously the experiences that I had last year was a lot of good ones, try to keep building on that and see where that takes us over the weekend," he said. Overnight leader Detry teed off on 10 and was three-under at the turn but was undone by bogeys on the fourth and fifth as he carded a two-under 70. "I know my game is really solid, I've been playing some really good golf now for the last couple years, so all I have to do is really trust it and keep building on all these good rounds that I've done under pressure," said the Belgian, who challenged last week at Torrey Pines before a disappointing final two rounds. Patrick Cantlay recovered from driving out of bounds on the 18th to make par and finish a stroke behind the leading trio after his two-under 70. American Justin Thomas, who shot a five-under 67, Argentine Emiliano Grillo and France's Matthieu Pavon -- coming off his historic victory at Torrey Pines on Sunday -- were all two shots off the lead.

Golf: Scottie Scheffler shares lead at Pebble Beach with Ludvig Aberg, Thomas Detry

World number one Scottie Scheffler fired two eagles in his seven-under par 65 to build a three-shot lead at the Hero World Challenge on Saturday as Tiger Woods continued his comeback with a one-under 71.

Fifteen-time Major winner Woods, playing his first tournament since ankle surgery in April that followed his withdrawal from the Masters, shook off a bogey-bogey start to card a one-under par 71 that left him at even par, 16 strokes behind Scheffler and tied for 16th in the 20-player event he hosts at the Albany Golf Course in the Bahamas.

Woods said he'd been "pleasantly surprised" at how his body has held up, which was more of a concern than the state of his game.

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"I still have game," he said. "It's whether or not the body can do it."

Woods, who turns 48 on December 30, had ankle surgery in April on the same leg that was severely injured in a 2021 car crash. While his leg pain is gone, he said he still contends with chronic back pain, but said before the tournament he could play as much as once a month in 2024.

On Saturday, he started 10 off the pace and got off to an inauspicious start with bogeys at the first and second.

He clawed back with birdies at the third, sixth eighth and ninth -- where he got up and down from a greenside bunker -- before two bogeys and a birdie coming in. That included a seven-foot par putt miss at the 18th.

"It could have been a little better than the score indicates," Woods said. "I think I could have shot something in the high 60s. I think it was cleaner than it was yesterday."

Most importantly, Woods said, he was "very excited" at how he has responded physically to the pace of competition.

"To be able to knock off some of the rust as I have this week, showed myself that I can recover each and every day, that was kind of an unknown," he said. "I'm very excited how the week's turned out."

<h2>Scheffler cruising</h2>

Scheffler, meanwhile, was in cruise control, starting the day tied for the lead with Jordan Spieth and seizing control with a 15-foot eagle at the third.

He added four birdies before he rolled in a 14-foot eagle at 15 to push his lead to four strokes over England's Matt Fitzpatrick, who also signed for a 65.

A bogey at 18, where Scheffler's drive was in the right rough, cut that by one, giving him a 16-under par total of 200.

"I played really well today, really solid the whole day," said Scheffler, the 2022 Masters champion who has finished runner-up in this event the past two years.

"(It's) nice to see some putts go in. These greens can be tough to putt at times, but I'm rolling it good."

Fitzpatrick had climbed the leaderboard with four birdies on the front nine. After a double-bogey at the 11th he birdied 12 and 14 before draining a 47-foot eagle putt at 15.

He bogeyed 16, but closed with back-to-back birdies for a 13-under par total of 203.

"It was good for pretty much the whole round bar two holes," Fitzpatrick said. "Drive on 11 was just what cost me, obviously, a double. Outside of that, everything was good today."

American Justin Thomas was alone in third after a four-under par 68 for 205.

Spieth, who was playing catch-up after his bogey at the third dropped him three off the pace, finished with four birdies and three bogeys in his 71 for 206, tied for fourth with Australian Jason Day and Americans Tony Finau and Collin Morikawa.

World number one Scottie Scheffler fired two eagles in his seven-under par 65 to build a three-shot lead at the Hero World Challenge on Saturday as Tiger Woods continued his comeback with a one-under 71.

World number one Scottie Scheffler fired two eagles in his seven-under par 65 to build a three-shot lead at the Hero World Challenge on Saturday as Tiger Woods continued his comeback with a one-under 71. Fifteen-time Major winner Woods, playing his first tournament since ankle surgery in April that followed his withdrawal from the Masters, shook off a bogey-bogey start to card a one-under par 71 that left him at even par, 16 strokes behind Scheffler and tied for 16th in the 20-player event he hosts at the Albany Golf Course in the Bahamas. Woods said he'd been "pleasantly surprised" at how his body has held up, which was more of a concern than the state of his game. Also Read: PCB withdraws Salman Butt from consulting panel following uproar within board "I still have game," he said. "It's whether or not the body can do it." Woods, who turns 48 on December 30, had ankle surgery in April on the same leg that was severely injured in a 2021 car crash. While his leg pain is gone, he said he still contends with chronic back pain, but said before the tournament he could play as much as once a month in 2024. On Saturday, he started 10 off the pace and got off to an inauspicious start with bogeys at the first and second. He clawed back with birdies at the third, sixth eighth and ninth -- where he got up and down from a greenside bunker -- before two bogeys and a birdie coming in. That included a seven-foot par putt miss at the 18th. "It could have been a little better than the score indicates," Woods said. "I think I could have shot something in the high 60s. I think it was cleaner than it was yesterday." Most importantly, Woods said, he was "very excited" at how he has responded physically to the pace of competition. "To be able to knock off some of the rust as I have this week, showed myself that I can recover each and every day, that was kind of an unknown," he said. "I'm very excited how the week's turned out." Scheffler cruising Scheffler, meanwhile, was in cruise control, starting the day tied for the lead with Jordan Spieth and seizing control with a 15-foot eagle at the third. He added four birdies before he rolled in a 14-foot eagle at 15 to push his lead to four strokes over England's Matt Fitzpatrick, who also signed for a 65. A bogey at 18, where Scheffler's drive was in the right rough, cut that by one, giving him a 16-under par total of 200. "I played really well today, really solid the whole day," said Scheffler, the 2022 Masters champion who has finished runner-up in this event the past two years. "(It's) nice to see some putts go in. These greens can be tough to putt at times, but I'm rolling it good." Fitzpatrick had climbed the leaderboard with four birdies on the front nine. After a double-bogey at the 11th he birdied 12 and 14 before draining a 47-foot eagle putt at 15. He bogeyed 16, but closed with back-to-back birdies for a 13-under par total of 203. "It was good for pretty much the whole round bar two holes," Fitzpatrick said. "Drive on 11 was just what cost me, obviously, a double. Outside of that, everything was good today." American Justin Thomas was alone in third after a four-under par 68 for 205. Spieth, who was playing catch-up after his bogey at the third dropped him three off the pace, finished with four birdies and three bogeys in his 71 for 206, tied for fourth with Australian Jason Day and Americans Tony Finau and Collin Morikawa.

Golf: Scottie Scheffler in lead at Hero World Challenge as Tiger Woods continues comeback

Scottie Scheffler, Viktor Hovland and Corey Conners delivered clutch birdies and grinded out par saves to share the lead after Friday's second round of the PGA Championship as rivals stumbled at rainy Oak Hill. Second-ranked American Scheffler, last year's Masters champion, and Canada's Conners, chasing his first major title, each fired two-under par 68 to finish 36 holes level at the top on five-under 135.

"Felt like I grinded it out pretty well," Scheffler said. "Didn't hit as many fairways as I would hope to but to shoot two-under was good, solid golf."

Conners, who won his second PGA Tour title at last month's Texas Open, worked magic with his putter when needed.

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"Very pleased," Conners said. "The conditions were tricky out there, faced some wind, some rain. I made a bunch of key putts to keep momentum going, and that was really the key to the day."

Norway's 11th-ranked Hovland, also seeking a first major crown, sank a five-foot birdie putt at the 18th hole to shoot 67 and make it three at the top.

"The score has been great but the way I've plodded my way around here, very pleased with that," he said. "I was trying to give myself the most stress-free pars and a couple birdie looks as well."

Bryson DeChambeau, the 2020 US Open champion, closed with a bogey to share fourth with fellow American Justin Suh on 137.

"It has been a few years, but it doesn't mean I don't know how to do it," DeChambeau said of winning. "I'm definitely trending in the right direction finally."

Four-time major winner Brooks Koepka and England's Callum Tarren were on 138 and England's Justin Rose and Canadian Taylor Pendrith on 139 as only nine players stood under par.

Scheffler, who would return to world number one with a victory, had two sets of back-to-back birdies but closed with a bogey.

"I was just trying to grind," he said. "I'm in a good position going into the weekend."

Conners consistently made putts from nine to 12 feet for pars and birdies.

"Definitely was a challenging day," he said. "But I felt like I played really solid."

Hovland adopted a patient and conservative philosophy and will stick with it.

"It's nice to have a chance, but we've got a lot of golf left," Hovland said. "I just have to keep being patient and hitting middle of the greens and let the pieces fall wherever they fall."

Koepka birdied three of the last four holes to shoot 66.

"Knew I needed a good round," said Koepka. "Happy to shoot under par and get back in the race."

Rose, the 2013 US Open and 2016 Rio Olympic champion, won in February at Pebble Beach for his first triumph since 2019. He could be the first Englishman to win a PGA Championship since Jim Barnes in 1916 and 1919.

Four-time major winner Rory McIlroy, chasing his first major victory since 2014, fired a 69 to stand on level par 140. He found water and made bogeys at six and seven but birdied nine from 44 feet and 18 from 16 feet.

"It was a bit of a grind again," McIlroy said. "I had to score as best as I could. Rode my luck a little bit. Pretty erratic off the tee, Need to tighten it up over the weekend."

American Michael Block shared 10th on 140, the best 36-hole spot for a club professional since 1988.

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Scottie Scheffler, Viktor Hovland and Corey Conners delivered clutch birdies and grinded out par saves to share the lead after Friday's second round of the PGA Championship as rivals stumbled at rainy Oak Hill.

Scottie Scheffler, Viktor Hovland and Corey Conners delivered clutch birdies and grinded out par saves to share the lead after Friday's second round of the PGA Championship as rivals stumbled at rainy Oak Hill. Second-ranked American Scheffler, last year's Masters champion, and Canada's Conners, chasing his first major title, each fired two-under par 68 to finish 36 holes level at the top on five-under 135. "Felt like I grinded it out pretty well," Scheffler said. "Didn't hit as many fairways as I would hope to but to shoot two-under was good, solid golf." Conners, who won his second PGA Tour title at last month's Texas Open, worked magic with his putter when needed. ALSO READ: Basketball: LeBron James, Barak Obama among others pay tribute to NBA great Jim Brown, who passed away aged 87 "Very pleased," Conners said. "The conditions were tricky out there, faced some wind, some rain. I made a bunch of key putts to keep momentum going, and that was really the key to the day." Norway's 11th-ranked Hovland, also seeking a first major crown, sank a five-foot birdie putt at the 18th hole to shoot 67 and make it three at the top. "The score has been great but the way I've plodded my way around here, very pleased with that," he said. "I was trying to give myself the most stress-free pars and a couple birdie looks as well." Bryson DeChambeau, the 2020 US Open champion, closed with a bogey to share fourth with fellow American Justin Suh on 137. "It has been a few years, but it doesn't mean I don't know how to do it," DeChambeau said of winning. "I'm definitely trending in the right direction finally." Four-time major winner Brooks Koepka and England's Callum Tarren were on 138 and England's Justin Rose and Canadian Taylor Pendrith on 139 as only nine players stood under par. Scheffler, who would return to world number one with a victory, had two sets of back-to-back birdies but closed with a bogey. "I was just trying to grind," he said. "I'm in a good position going into the weekend." Conners consistently made putts from nine to 12 feet for pars and birdies. "Definitely was a challenging day," he said. "But I felt like I played really solid." Hovland adopted a patient and conservative philosophy and will stick with it. "It's nice to have a chance, but we've got a lot of golf left," Hovland said. "I just have to keep being patient and hitting middle of the greens and let the pieces fall wherever they fall." Koepka birdied three of the last four holes to shoot 66. "Knew I needed a good round," said Koepka. "Happy to shoot under par and get back in the race." Rose, the 2013 US Open and 2016 Rio Olympic champion, won in February at Pebble Beach for his first triumph since 2019. He could be the first Englishman to win a PGA Championship since Jim Barnes in 1916 and 1919. Four-time major winner Rory McIlroy, chasing his first major victory since 2014, fired a 69 to stand on level par 140. He found water and made bogeys at six and seven but birdied nine from 44 feet and 18 from 16 feet. "It was a bit of a grind again," McIlroy said. "I had to score as best as I could. Rode my luck a little bit. Pretty erratic off the tee, Need to tighten it up over the weekend." American Michael Block shared 10th on 140, the best 36-hole spot for a club professional since 1988. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Golf: Scottie Scheffler, Viktor Hovland and Corey Conners share lead after second round in PGA Championship

Scottie Scheffler said he has become more comfortable with his game over the past year and is not overthinking things or striving for perfection after the American delivered a dominant victory at the Players Championship on Sunday. Masters champion Scheffler, who said last year he "cried like a baby" before the final round at Augusta National, was a picture of calm at TPC Sawgrass as he collected the PGA Tour's biggest winner's cheque of $4.5 million and regained the world number one ranking with his five-shot victory.

"I'm trying to get a little bit better at a time, not overthink things and fortunately be able to see some good results and enjoy some wins," Scheffler said. The 26-year-old earned his sixth win in the last 13 months ahead of his Masters defence from April 6-9.

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"I'm just comfortable with where my game is," he added in a news conference. "I feel like I'm improving. I'm definitely learning more and more, the more you can get into contention and be in the moments ... I guess the experience helps. "I had some times throughout week where I didn't feel like I was swinging my best or playing at 100%, and then I would just kind of wait and pick my moments. "Before Phoenix (in 2022) I had this idea that I had to play perfect on Sundays and hit nothing but good shots, and that's not necessarily how&nbsp;golf&nbsp;is played. The most valuable thing is knowing what you feel like and being able to prepare for it."

At the Tour Championship in August, Scheffler squandered a six-shot lead in the final round and lost to Rory McIlroy by one stroke. "I was mentally and physically drained, emotionally drained," Scheffler said. "But the hard times make the good times that much sweeter. "Going into the Masters, it's going to be a fun week."

Scottie Scheffler said he has become more comfortable with his game over the past year and is not overthinking things or striving for perfection after the American delivered a dominant victory at the Players Championship on Sunday.

Scottie Scheffler said he has become more comfortable with his game over the past year and is not overthinking things or striving for perfection after the American delivered a dominant victory at the Players Championship on Sunday. Masters champion Scheffler, who said last year he "cried like a baby" before the final round at Augusta National, was a picture of calm at TPC Sawgrass as he collected the PGA Tour's biggest winner's cheque of $4.5 million and regained the world number one ranking with his five-shot victory. "I'm trying to get a little bit better at a time, not overthink things and fortunately be able to see some good results and enjoy some wins," Scheffler said. The 26-year-old earned his sixth win in the last 13 months ahead of his Masters defence from April 6-9. Also read: Athletics high jump legend Dick Fosbury dead at 76: agent "I'm just comfortable with where my game is," he added in a news conference. "I feel like I'm improving. I'm definitely learning more and more, the more you can get into contention and be in the moments ... I guess the experience helps. "I had some times throughout week where I didn't feel like I was swinging my best or playing at 100%, and then I would just kind of wait and pick my moments. "Before Phoenix (in 2022) I had this idea that I had to play perfect on Sundays and hit nothing but good shots, and that's not necessarily how golf is played. The most valuable thing is knowing what you feel like and being able to prepare for it." At the Tour Championship in August, Scheffler squandered a six-shot lead in the final round and lost to Rory McIlroy by one stroke. "I was mentally and physically drained, emotionally drained," Scheffler said. "But the hard times make the good times that much sweeter. "Going into the Masters, it's going to be a fun week."

GOLF: Scottie Scheffler reveals he is in his comfort zone ahead of Masters defence

Scottie Scheffler knocked Rory McIlroy off the top of the world rankings on Sunday after the Masters champion retained his Phoenix Open title in Arizona. Scheffler carded a final round of six-under-par 65 for a 19 under total to claim his fifth PGA Tour title and regain the number one ranking he had held for 30 weeks until October. Canada's Nick Taylor also carded a final round of 65 to finish two strokes adrift. "It feels pretty good," Scheffler, 26, said. "I'm just proud of how I fought. I didn't have my best stuff, but I grinded it out. "Bad shots are going to come. You're not going to play 72 holes of perfect&nbsp;golf. A lot of it is how you respond."

Scheffler, who took the $3.6 million top prize, won his first PGA Tour title in Phoenix to kick off a run of four wins in six starts. The American won his first major at Augusta National last April and was voted PGA Tour Player of the Year.

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Spaniard Jon Rahm, who also had a chance to become number one with a win on Sunday, was third at 14-under after closing with a 68, while McIlroy carded a 70 to finish joint 32nd on four under for the tournament.

Scottie Scheffler knocked Rory McIlroy off the top of the world rankings on Sunday after the Masters champion retained his Phoenix Open title in Arizona. Scheffler carded a final round of six-under-par 65 for a 19 under total to claim his fifth PGA Tour title and regain the number one ranking he had held for 30 weeks until October.

Scottie Scheffler knocked Rory McIlroy off the top of the world rankings on Sunday after the Masters champion retained his Phoenix Open title in Arizona. Scheffler carded a final round of six-under-par 65 for a 19 under total to claim his fifth PGA Tour title and regain the number one ranking he had held for 30 weeks until October. Canada's Nick Taylor also carded a final round of 65 to finish two strokes adrift. "It feels pretty good," Scheffler, 26, said. "I'm just proud of how I fought. I didn't have my best stuff, but I grinded it out. "Bad shots are going to come. You're not going to play 72 holes of perfect golf. A lot of it is how you respond." Scheffler, who took the $3.6 million top prize, won his first PGA Tour title in Phoenix to kick off a run of four wins in six starts. The American won his first major at Augusta National last April and was voted PGA Tour Player of the Year. Also read: Who is Brittany Matthews? Meet Super Bowl MVP & star football quarterback Patrick Mahomes' wife Spaniard Jon Rahm, who also had a chance to become number one with a win on Sunday, was third at 14-under after closing with a 68, while McIlroy carded a 70 to finish joint 32nd on four under for the tournament.

Scottie Scheffler reclaims top ranking from Rory McIlroy after Phoenix Open win

In the ongoing Hero World Challenge at the Albany Golf course in the Bahamas, 2022 Masters champion Scottie Scheffler has a chance to regain his number one spot if he wins the event this week. America’s Scottie Scheffler has had a wonderful 2022, winning four events this year including his maiden Major at the Augusta Masters in April. On the opening day of the event, he spoke with WION’s Sports Editor, Digvijay Singh Deo, about his stellar year and what are his thoughts on the future of PGA Tour.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-money-is-nice-but-knowing-how-good-i-can-become-drives-me-viktor-hovland-539055">EXCLUSIVE: Money is nice but knowing how good I can become drives me, says Viktor Hovland</a>

To not have Tiger Woods playing here is disappointing – Scottie

Even after announcing earlier that he will be part of the Hero World Challenge this year, 15-time Major Champion, Tiger Woods got ruled out just before the start of the event due to a foot injury. Not having him playing was not only disappointing for his fans, but also for those participating. Commenting on the same, Scottie Scheffler said,&nbsp;“It's disappointing not to have Tiger playing here; we all know Tiger wanted to be here, it's more disappointing for him.”

The former world number 1, who won his first Major at the Augusta Masters in April 2022, shared his thoughts on the win saying, “I think everybody dreams of winning at Majors. I think for the ones growing up in the United States, that's most important to us. Augusta is one you always want to win.”

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We definitely want to support PGA Tour - Scottie

Further speaking on the current events relating to the PGA Tour making headlines, Scottie shared his thoughts acknowledging what this tour has given to him and what this means to play here. He also added saying he is looking forward to 2023 with the new changes coming in the schedule in PGA Tour.

“It's important for me to represent the PGA Tour. I am very happy and proud to be part of the PGA Tour, and I want to continue to have success here. We have so much history here; the PGA Tour has given us all great opportunities to play professional golf, and this definitely something we want to support.”

Scheffler concluded by saying, “Yes, a lot’s happened this year, as far as I am concerned, I try and give my best every time. I am always focused on the game. In regards to the PGA Tour, I am looking forward to 2023, and excited about the changes to our schedule.”&nbsp;

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In the ongoing Hero World Challenge at the Albany Golf course in the Bahamas, 2022 Masters champion Scottie Scheffler has a chance to regain his number one spot if he wins the event this week.

In the ongoing Hero World Challenge at the Albany Golf course in the Bahamas, 2022 Masters champion Scottie Scheffler has a chance to regain his number one spot if he wins the event this week. America’s Scottie Scheffler has had a wonderful 2022, winning four events this year including his maiden Major at the Augusta Masters in April. On the opening day of the event, he spoke with WION’s Sports Editor, Digvijay Singh Deo, about his stellar year and what are his thoughts on the future of PGA Tour. ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE: Money is nice but knowing how good I can become drives me, says Viktor Hovland To not have Tiger Woods playing here is disappointing – Scottie Even after announcing earlier that he will be part of the Hero World Challenge this year, 15-time Major Champion, Tiger Woods got ruled out just before the start of the event due to a foot injury. Not having him playing was not only disappointing for his fans, but also for those participating. Commenting on the same, Scottie Scheffler said, “It's disappointing not to have Tiger playing here; we all know Tiger wanted to be here, it's more disappointing for him.” The former world number 1, who won his first Major at the Augusta Masters in April 2022, shared his thoughts on the win saying, “I think everybody dreams of winning at Majors. I think for the ones growing up in the United States, that's most important to us. Augusta is one you always want to win.” ALSO READ: Exclusive | LIV Golf-PGA tour issue was not handled well, says Tiger Woods We definitely want to support PGA Tour - Scottie Further speaking on the current events relating to the PGA Tour making headlines, Scottie shared his thoughts acknowledging what this tour has given to him and what this means to play here. He also added saying he is looking forward to 2023 with the new changes coming in the schedule in PGA Tour. “It's important for me to represent the PGA Tour. I am very happy and proud to be part of the PGA Tour, and I want to continue to have success here. We have so much history here; the PGA Tour has given us all great opportunities to play professional golf, and this definitely something we want to support.” Scheffler concluded by saying, “Yes, a lot’s happened this year, as far as I am concerned, I try and give my best every time. I am always focused on the game. In regards to the PGA Tour, I am looking forward to 2023, and excited about the changes to our schedule.” ×

EXCLUSIVE - I love playing on PGA Tour, it has given us so much: Scottie Scheffler

2022 Masters Champion Scottie Scheffler can regain the world number one ranking from Rory McIlroy if he wins the Hero World Challenge this week. The PGA tour player of the year won four events this year including his maiden major at the masters in April. The American opened up on his stellar 2022 run in an exclusive conversation with sports editor Digvijay Singh Deo.

Exclusive: 2022 Masters Champion Scottie Scheffler targets no. 1 ranking

World number one Scottie Scheffler takes the spotlight and a three-shot lead into the Masters final round on Sunday as Tiger Woods continues his comeback far away from the leaderboard.

The year's first major looks poised for a Green Jacket showdown between the planet's two hottest golfers in Scheffler, winner of three of his last five PGA Tour starts and Australian Cameron Smith, winner of golf`s unofficial fifth major the Players Championship in March.

Scheffler had been poised to run away with the title when he powered to a six-shot lead in Saturday's third round but wobbled to the finish with three bogeys to see his advantage halved setting up what could be an Augusta National thriller.

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The final pair of Scheffler and Smith, runner-up to Dustin Johnson at the 2020 Masters, are scheduled off at 240pm ET (1840 GMT).

If anyone else expects to join the fray they will need to mount an early charge.

South Korea's Im Sung-jae will start five off the pace with playing partner Irishman Shane Lowry, the 2019 British Open champion, seven back.

South Africa's Charl Schwartzel, the 2011 Masters champion, is also seven adrift with his partner Justin Thomas eight back.

Until Sunday the Masters spotlight had seldom strayed from Woods, who is playing his first event since a car crash 14 months ago nearly cost him his right leg.

The 46-year-old on Tuesday confirmed he would play the Masters and that he believed he could win a record-equalling sixth Green Jacket.

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The 15-times major winner's comeback captivated the golfing world as he stayed in contention through the opening two rounds but any hope of victory ended on Saturday with a six-over 78, Woods'&nbsp;worst-ever score at Augusta National.

He and his playing partner Jon Rahm were among the early starters on Sunday going off at 1050am ET (1450 GMT) almost four hours before Scheffler and Smith.

But Woods is assured of a roaring ovation from the adoring gallery for a brave effort when he walks off the 18th green.

World number one Scottie Scheffler takes the spotlight and a three-shot lead into the Masters final round on Sunday as Tiger Woods continues his comeback far away from the leaderboard.

World number one Scottie Scheffler takes the spotlight and a three-shot lead into the Masters final round on Sunday as Tiger Woods continues his comeback far away from the leaderboard. The year's first major looks poised for a Green Jacket showdown between the planet's two hottest golfers in Scheffler, winner of three of his last five PGA Tour starts and Australian Cameron Smith, winner of golf`s unofficial fifth major the Players Championship in March. Scheffler had been poised to run away with the title when he powered to a six-shot lead in Saturday's third round but wobbled to the finish with three bogeys to see his advantage halved setting up what could be an Augusta National thriller. ALSO READ: Just going play my game: Tiger Woods 'proud' of himself after battling to stay in Masters hunt The final pair of Scheffler and Smith, runner-up to Dustin Johnson at the 2020 Masters, are scheduled off at 240pm ET (1840 GMT). If anyone else expects to join the fray they will need to mount an early charge. South Korea's Im Sung-jae will start five off the pace with playing partner Irishman Shane Lowry, the 2019 British Open champion, seven back. South Africa's Charl Schwartzel, the 2011 Masters champion, is also seven adrift with his partner Justin Thomas eight back. Until Sunday the Masters spotlight had seldom strayed from Woods, who is playing his first event since a car crash 14 months ago nearly cost him his right leg. The 46-year-old on Tuesday confirmed he would play the Masters and that he believed he could win a record-equalling sixth Green Jacket. ALSO READ: Tiger Woods begins highly-anticipated return with opening par at Masters The 15-times major winner's comeback captivated the golfing world as he stayed in contention through the opening two rounds but any hope of victory ended on Saturday with a six-over 78, Woods' worst-ever score at Augusta National. He and his playing partner Jon Rahm were among the early starters on Sunday going off at 1050am ET (1450 GMT) almost four hours before Scheffler and Smith. But Woods is assured of a roaring ovation from the adoring gallery for a brave effort when he walks off the 18th green.

USA's Scottie Scheffler chases Masters win, Tiger Woods shoots career-worst 78

In-form American and current world No. 1, Scottie Scheffler carded a final round 71 at the famed Augusta National to earn his first major title and fourth win on the PGA Tour here on Sunday. Scheffler, who went 10-under for the tournament, finishing three strokes ahead of Northern Ireland`s former world No. 1 Rory McIlroy, became the first player to win four times in a six-start stretch on the PGA Tour since Australian golfer Jason Day in 2015. 
 
Scheffler held off the chasing pack to further cement his position as No. 1 on the FedEx Cup standings and Official World Golf Ranking. The American also became the sixth player to win in his first PGA Tour start as world No. 1 and sixth world No. 1 to win the Masters as he aggregated 10-under 278 for the tournament. 
 
Tiger Woods finished 47th in his first start since the 2020 Masters and some 14 months after a horrific car mishap, which led to serious leg injuries. Among Asians, South Korea`s Sungjae Im settled for a second top-10 finish in three starts at the Masters. A cold putter proved to be a bane for the 24-year-old in his chase for major glory as he signed for a disappointing 3-over 75, finishing nine back of Scheffler.

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Defending champion Hideki Matsuyama closed with a 72 to finish tied-14th, which was a commendable effort considering he was battling a back injury for a month leading up to the Masters. 
 
After missing birdie attempts on his first three holes, Im dropped the first of six bogeys at the par 3 fourth hole, and it was subsequently uphill for the two-time PGA Tour winner, who was runner-up in his Masters debut in 2020. 
 
"It was a little bit disappointing. I missed a lot of putts," rued Im, who averaged 1.83 putts per green in regulation, his highest of the week. "Overall, I think top-10 is good, and I am happy especially when I didn`t play well." 
 
The top-10 guaranteed a quick return to the year`s first major which Im intends to keep knocking on the door as he feels Augusta National is suited to his precision game. "It is good to secure an invitation early," said Im, who was the first-round leader following a 67. 
 
"I will keep the same strategy... play for the cut, and then try to compete for a win. The Masters was my dream since I was a kid and watched this on TV. I always hoped to play at Augusta National and compete with the greatest golfers, and competing for the trophy. This is huge." 
 
Im leaves Augusta National with every belief he has garnered greater knowledge and understanding of the nuances at the challenging layout. 
 
"Accuracy is more important than power here. Finding the right side of the green is key. It is very important to place the ball where you can make par. If not, you can easily three putt," he said. 
 
"I was top of the leaderboard and was able to compete for a win. It was also the first time I played in front of patrons and I enjoyed the atmosphere and roars. It makes the tournament enjoyable and I will never forget this experience." 
 
Matsuyama, who made history as Asia`s first Masters winner 12 months ago, traded five birdies against as many bogeys as he held his head high to finish inside the top-15. He later presented the Green Jacket to Scheffler, who defeated Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland by three strokes with his 10-under 278 aggregate. 
 
"I`m happy I was able to play all four days," said Japan`s first male major champion. "I struggled to play the type of golf that I was envisioning. I wish I was able to contend a little more." 
 
Leaderboard 
 
1. Scottie Scheffler 69-67-71-71-278 (-10); 
 
2. Rory McIlroy 73-73-71-64-281 (-7); 
 
3. Shane Lowry 73-68-73-69-283 (-5); 
 
4. Cameron Smith 68-74-68-73-283 (-5); 
 
5. Collin Morikawa 73-70-74-67-284 (-4).

In-form American and current world No. 1, Scottie Scheffler carded a final round 71 at the famed Augusta National to earn his first major title and fourth win on the PGA Tour here on Sunday.

In-form American and current world No. 1, Scottie Scheffler carded a final round 71 at the famed Augusta National to earn his first major title and fourth win on the PGA Tour here on Sunday. Scheffler, who went 10-under for the tournament, finishing three strokes ahead of Northern Ireland`s former world No. 1 Rory McIlroy, became the first player to win four times in a six-start stretch on the PGA Tour since Australian golfer Jason Day in 2015. Scheffler held off the chasing pack to further cement his position as No. 1 on the FedEx Cup standings and Official World Golf Ranking. The American also became the sixth player to win in his first PGA Tour start as world No. 1 and sixth world No. 1 to win the Masters as he aggregated 10-under 278 for the tournament. Tiger Woods finished 47th in his first start since the 2020 Masters and some 14 months after a horrific car mishap, which led to serious leg injuries. Among Asians, South Korea`s Sungjae Im settled for a second top-10 finish in three starts at the Masters. A cold putter proved to be a bane for the 24-year-old in his chase for major glory as he signed for a disappointing 3-over 75, finishing nine back of Scheffler. ALSO READ | Just going play my game: Tiger Woods 'proud' of himself after battling to stay in Masters hunt Defending champion Hideki Matsuyama closed with a 72 to finish tied-14th, which was a commendable effort considering he was battling a back injury for a month leading up to the Masters. After missing birdie attempts on his first three holes, Im dropped the first of six bogeys at the par 3 fourth hole, and it was subsequently uphill for the two-time PGA Tour winner, who was runner-up in his Masters debut in 2020. "It was a little bit disappointing. I missed a lot of putts," rued Im, who averaged 1.83 putts per green in regulation, his highest of the week. "Overall, I think top-10 is good, and I am happy especially when I didn`t play well." The top-10 guaranteed a quick return to the year`s first major which Im intends to keep knocking on the door as he feels Augusta National is suited to his precision game. "It is good to secure an invitation early," said Im, who was the first-round leader following a 67. "I will keep the same strategy... play for the cut, and then try to compete for a win. The Masters was my dream since I was a kid and watched this on TV. I always hoped to play at Augusta National and compete with the greatest golfers, and competing for the trophy. This is huge." Im leaves Augusta National with every belief he has garnered greater knowledge and understanding of the nuances at the challenging layout. "Accuracy is more important than power here. Finding the right side of the green is key. It is very important to place the ball where you can make par. If not, you can easily three putt," he said. "I was top of the leaderboard and was able to compete for a win. It was also the first time I played in front of patrons and I enjoyed the atmosphere and roars. It makes the tournament enjoyable and I will never forget this experience." Matsuyama, who made history as Asia`s first Masters winner 12 months ago, traded five birdies against as many bogeys as he held his head high to finish inside the top-15. He later presented the Green Jacket to Scheffler, who defeated Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland by three strokes with his 10-under 278 aggregate. "I`m happy I was able to play all four days," said Japan`s first male major champion. "I struggled to play the type of golf that I was envisioning. I wish I was able to contend a little more." Leaderboard 1. Scottie Scheffler 69-67-71-71-278 (-10); 2. Rory McIlroy 73-73-71-64-281 (-7); 3. Shane Lowry 73-68-73-69-283 (-5); 4. Cameron Smith 68-74-68-73-283 (-5); 5. Collin Morikawa 73-70-74-67-284 (-4).

Masters 2022: In-form American and World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler emerges champion at Augusta

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