Scheffler's Mixed Reaction to Format Change
Scottie Scheffler, the world number one and FedEx Cup points leader, enters this week's Tour Championship at East Lake with a chance to repeat his 2024 victory. Despite a season marked by 12 top-5 finishes in 19 starts and 18 top-25s, he has won fewer events than he would have liked. Last week, he dealt with hand, foot, and mouth disease in St. Louis, Missouri.[S1]
On Tuesday, Brian Rolapp announced that the Tour Championship will adopt a match-play format in 2028. Speaking to reporters on Wednesday morning, Scheffler acknowledged the change is 'interesting' and 'fun,' but he expressed reservations about the group-play stage, which he finds hard to grasp. He noted that a full week without a winner is 'a bit unusual' for him, as he typically competes for a title every time he tees it up.[S1]
Concerns Over Randomness and Financial Rewards
Scheffler also raised concerns about the match-play format's inherent unpredictability. He argued that match play can be 'flukey,' as the best player does not always win, unlike in stroke play where consistency over 72 holes is rewarded. He emphasized that a single bad stretch could eliminate the Tour's top performer early, regardless of their regular-season success.[S2]
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He emphasized that bonuses for consistent play across the season should be spread out over the whole year, rather than being tied to a short two-week window. Scheffler endorsed the Tour's choice to keep the regular-season points race separate from the playoffs, arguing that earning value over many tournaments is a more equitable way to determine compensation.[S2]
Looking Ahead to 2028
The 2028 revamp will start with a 32-player group phase before moving to a 16-player elimination bracket. Although specific prize money details haven't been disclosed, Scheffler's call for financial transparency keeps the discussion alive. He views the change as a positive for the Tour, possibly moving away from East Lake and trying different venues and settings.[S2]
Scheffler concluded that the match-play finale could be a 'really fun, interesting way to end the year,' and he believes fans have been craving this change for a long time. He noted that the current framework leaves 'a lot of opportunity' for the Tour, and he is excited about the prospect of finishing the season in a new and engaging way.[S1]
