Could Xander Schauffele win PGA Tour Player of the Year after claiming two majors in 2024?

Xander Schauffele claimed victory at the British Open with an impressive final round performance at Royal Troon, finishing at 9-under 275 to secure a two-shot lead over Billy Horschel and Justin Rose. Schauffele’s run of six birdies in an 11-hole span propelled him to victory, with key birdie putts at crucial moments throughout the round.
His flawless performance included hitting 16 greens and not making a single bogey, showcasing his consistent and solid play under pressure. This win marked Schauffele’s second major championship of the season, following his earlier victory at the PGA Championship in May with a final round score of 65.
As the debate for PGA Tour Player of the Year heats up, Schauffele’s dual major victories have brought him into contention against Scottie Scheffler, who has six victories this season including a major championship. The comparison between the two players’ performances in the majors and their overall season accomplishments will likely factor into the decision.
A key precedent from 1998, when David Duval and Mark O’Meara were in a similar situation, highlights the importance of major victories in the Player of the Year vote. Despite Scheffler’s current lead in the rankings, Schauffele’s major wins and consistent success in big tournaments could sway the vote in his favor.
The ongoing battle for Player of the Year may come down to performances at upcoming events such as the Olympics and the FedEx Cup. Winning the season-long FedEx Cup race could tip the scales for either Schauffele or Scheffler, as past Player of the Year winners have often been determined by success in this prestigious competition.
Schauffele’s success in previous majors, including a second-place finish at the Players Championship and top-10 finishes in all four majors this season, bolsters his case for Player of the Year. In comparison, Scheffler’s mixed results in major championships may put him at a disadvantage in the overall evaluation.
The upcoming Olympics in Paris, where Schauffele will defend his gold medal, could also play a role in the Player of the Year debate. While Olympic success does not officially count towards PGA Tour records, a strong performance at the Games could further solidify Schauffele’s position as a top contender for the award.
Ultimately, the decision for PGA Tour Player of the Year will likely hinge on a combination of major victories, consistent performance in key tournaments, and success in the FedEx Cup race. Both Schauffele and Scheffler have compelling cases for the prestigious award, making the final outcome of the debate a closely contested and highly anticipated event in the world of professional golf.