Scottie Scheffler launches Masters title defense focused on Augusta challenge

World number one aims to stay grounded as he eyes back-to-back Masters wins at Augusta National.

Scottie Scheffler of the United States chips on the 14th hole during a practice round ahead of the 2025 Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club on April 9, 2025, in Augusta, Georgia. Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

Scottie Scheffler launches Masters title defense this week with his eyes not on history but on the green slopes and slippery secrets of Augusta National. As he tees off Thursday at the storied Georgia course, Scheffler, the world number one, is focused less on joining the ranks of Masters legends and more on executing the clean, consistent golf that has brought him to the top of the sport.

For Scheffler, this week isn’t about chasing ghosts — even if those ghosts wear green jackets and answer to names like Nicklaus, Faldo, and Woods. He knows that only three men have won the Masters in back-to-back years. And while he respects the weight of that history, he isn’t letting it alter his mindset.

“When I think about getting ready for this week, when I step on the first tee on Thursday, I’m going to remind myself that I’ve done what I needed to do to play well,” Scheffler said in his pre-tournament press conference. “And it’s all about going out and competing now.”

That kind of clarity is typical of Scheffler, who won the Masters in 2022 and returns to Augusta having cemented himself as the most consistent force on the PGA Tour. His game — a blend of technical precision and mental calm — has been built for these moments. But Scheffler refuses to let the pressure of a title defense cloud his focus.

The Augusta mindset: Forget the noise, play your game

This is Scheffler’s fourth Masters appearance, and if there's one thing he knows, it's that Augusta National demands humility. Every bounce counts, every putt matters, and no lead is ever safe.

“You have to respect this course,” he said. “If you try to overpower it or get ahead of yourself, it’ll punish you quickly.”

And yet, that’s exactly what separates champions from contenders: the ability to stay grounded when the noise around you gets louder. That’s where Scheffler excels. While the headlines swirl with talk of history and legacy, he remains centered.

He’s not the only one shutting out the noise. Rory McIlroy, the world number two, comes into this week with his own storyline — an elusive career Grand Slam that he’s been chasing for over a decade. Augusta is the only major he hasn’t conquered. Despite ten previous attempts, McIlroy is back, again within reach of golfing immortality.

“It’s just narratives. It’s noise,” McIlroy said, brushing off the pressure. With two PGA Tour wins already in 2025, he appears ready to challenge.

A stacked leaderboard of contenders

While Scheffler and McIlroy dominate the headlines, the field is packed with talent. World number three Xander Schauffele is riding high after winning both the PGA Championship and The Open last season. Many see him as one of the few players with the all-around game and composure needed to win at Augusta.

And then there's Bryson DeChambeau, the reigning US Open champion. Despite the ongoing division between the PGA Tour and the Saudi-funded LIV Golf series, DeChambeau is one of 12 LIV players competing at the Masters. Their presence adds a layer of unpredictability to the tournament, as their current form isn’t reflected in the world rankings.

Editors' Picks

DeChambeau, known for his muscle-bound approach to the game, remains a wildcard. His power game has never truly clicked at Augusta, but his renewed focus on course strategy could make him a threat.

Among other names to watch: Jon Rahm, the 2023 Masters champion, is back and hungry. Jordan Spieth, a former winner here, has shown glimpses of vintage form in recent months. And Justin Thomas, though inconsistent lately, is always dangerous on a course where creativity and touch reign supreme.

Masters 2025: A tournament with extra weight

The 2025 Masters is more than just another stop on the golfing calendar. This year’s edition comes at a time when men’s professional golf is as fractured as ever. The ongoing split between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf continues to cast a shadow, even if Augusta National itself remains above the fray.

Still, for fans, the Masters remains sacred ground — a place where past, present, and future collide beneath blooming azaleas and whispering pines. And for players, it’s a place where careers are made.

Scheffler knows this better than most. He walked the 18th fairway in triumph once before, slipping on the green jacket with the grace and humility that has made him a fan favorite. Now, he’ll try to do it again — but on his terms, without the distraction of legacy chasing.

Eyes on the prize, feet on the ground

If you ask Scheffler what drives him, he won’t talk about records or trophies. He talks about preparation. Practice. Process. That’s been his mantra since his early days on tour. And that’s what he’ll carry with him this week.

“You can’t fake it at Augusta,” he said. “You have to earn everything.”

So while others are busy tallying potential milestones, Scheffler will be focused on his swing path, his putting stroke, and the subtle breaks of the greens. If everything comes together, he might just make history — not by chasing it, but by ignoring it.

As Thursday dawns over Augusta, the buzz is deafening. But amid the swirling expectations, Scottie Scheffler launches Masters title defense with a quiet confidence. For him, the mission is simple: play his best, stay present, and trust the work that brought him here.

And if that work leads him to another green jacket? All the better. But for now, he’s just here to compete — and that might be the most dangerous mindset of all.