As the drama of the PGA Tour season reaches its climax on Thursday at Atlanta’s iconic East Lake Golf Club, a fierce battle of skill and strategy awaits in the Tour Championship. All eyes are on Rory McIlroy, the reigning FedExCup champion, as he vies to overturn a three-shot deficit against the formidable World No. 1, Scottie Scheffler.
But with an unprecedented $18 million at stake and a unique starting strokes system in play, it’s more than just a game—it’s a high-stakes showdown that promises twists, turns, and tension to the very end. Will McIlroy rise to the challenge once more?
Reflections on past Fed Ex Championship
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Rory McIlroy is a big name in the FedEx Cup championships due to his past performances. He made an impressive comeback, in 2022 beating Scottie Scheffler’s 10-stroke lead to win. This was McIlroy’s third win at the Tour Championship, making him a standout in FedEx Cup records. He also got bagged a prize of $18 million.
In 2012, he had two wins, but Brandt Snedeker took the main title at the Tour Championship. Yet, McIlroy didn’t give up. He won twice in 2016, including at the Tour Championship. The East Lake Golf Club saw him win the FedEx Cup three times: in 2016, 2019, and 2022.
At a press talk for the TOUR Championship on Wednesday, August 23, 2023, at Atlanta, Georgia, USA East Lake Golf Club, Rory McIlroy shared his thoughts about the upcoming competition. He remembered being 11 shots behind in a past tournament but still managing a comeback.
Rory mentioned that making it to the TOUR Championship means a player has had a good year. Earlier in his career, he had come into the TOUR Championship No. 1 twice in 2012 and 2014 but didn’t win. However, over time, he’s learned how to play the course better. He mentioned, “Yeah, no, I’ve had a great run here over the years and and obviously in a great position to try to add another FedExCup title to the mantle piece.”
Comparing with Tiger Woods 2000’s game
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Rory McIlroy was asked who might be titled the Player of the Year. He mentioned it’s a tough choice between Scottie Scheffler, who has two big wins this year winning THE PLAYERS, and Jon Rahm, who won four times, including the Masters.
Rory McIlroy talked about how good Scottie Scheffler has been playing. He said Scottie’s hitting the ball “he could end up with the best ball-striking season of all time. He’s hit the ball as good, if not better, than Tiger hit it in 2000. Which is the benchmark for all of us.” Even with Scottie’s great play, Jon Rahm has also been impressive this year. McIlroy thinks the upcoming game will show who’s the best between them. He sees it as a close match between Jon and Scottie.
Read More: Breaking Down Tiger Woods’ Best Ever Season on the PGA Tour
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As the week proceeds, the tension among the players and fans is increasing. We can’t wait to see who clinches the title and takes it home. Every player is bringing their A-game. Only time will time who the winner will be.