On or off the course, Scottie Scheffler has arguably perfected balance this year. With a string of triumphs, including a major win, Olympic gold, and helping Team USA clinch the Presidents Cup, the World No. 1 golfer is at the top of his game. Add to that becoming a devoted dad to his newborn, Bennett, and Scheffler’s year is one for the books. Yet, despite his success, the 28-year-old remains grounded, often saying golf is just one part of his life. But how does he manage to maintain such boundaries?
Rory McIlroy, reflecting on Scheffler’s balance, shared insights in a recent conversation with Kyle Porter. When asked how he balances passion with perspective, McIlroy admitted, “It’s a very fine line to walk.” He expressed his own deep commitment to golf, driven by a desire to fulfill his career dreams. Yet, he noted the importance of not letting the game consume him. “Scottie does a really good job of it because he cares deeply but is humble enough to know it’s not all in his control,” McIlroy said, crediting Scheffler’s faith for grounding him.
McIlroy also shared that achieving this balance is something he’s worked on over the years, often with the help of sports psychologist Dr. Bob Rotella. One technique that’s been particularly beneficial, according to McIlroy, is learning to assign a “low level of importance” to each shot and day, allowing him to approach each game without being overwhelmed by the stakes. He explained, “Rotella and I talk about giving each shot and each day the same low level of importance. It’s important, but it’s not everything.”
For Scheffler and McIlroy, the secret to balance lies in staying grounded, keeping faith, and viewing golf as just one aspect of a fulfilling life.
