The Ryder Cup clock is ticking rapidly as the tournament approaches its cusp. No wonder the anticipation and sentiments are at their peak as professionals gear up for the biennial battle. Amidst this, some of the golfers have taken a much-needed hiatus from the on-course action, including the American icon, Xander Schauffele.

This has made room for some of the off-field interactions to surround the 29-year-old. One of the latest exchanges took place recently with Sports Illustrated featuring the Ryder Cup and the “nothing special” 3-decade winless streak of the US Team on European greens. However, the Californian native appeared confident in his team’s preparations as he provided a collected response.

Xander Schauffele puts forth an unbothered foot in response to the US Team’s winless history on European soil

The Ryder Cup has grabbed hold of the golf world in the utmost sense, making all talk surround it. This is indeed what brought attention to the American star, who has been missing from the greens for a few weeks. In his recent interview with Sports Illustrated, Xander Schauffele was questioned on varied Ryder Cup-related matters.

While the conversation started lightheartedly, it soon shifted to the “30-year winless drought” of Team USA on European soil. Schauffele, sounding nonchalant, replied in negation about putting the stat on a pedestal in his mind. He acknowledged their underwhelming performance last time in Whistling Straits and how every player was aware of that.

Yet, with a few repeats from last time’s team, Schauffele seemed assured about the players’ skills and captain rather than an unchangeable stat. “We’re not really tainted by that sort of talk,” came the 29-year-old golfer’s response in lieu of people’s comments, per SI.

He addressed the points he had heard about the USA not having won since before the golfer was born. Evidently, such comments brought out only an unbothered reaction from the golfer, gaining a simple “I don’t really care.” He revealed how the team has not discussed the past moments, as nobody particularly likes talking about losses.

Lucky for him, the lack of social media craze allows him to take a break from the going-around discussions even more. However, he seemed confident in his team’s potential and stated how their aim remains “bringing that thing back.”

Schauffele highlights his patriotic confidence and game plan

With the focus diverting from the team, the golfer also opened up about his own performance on the Italian greens. When asked about his game plan for Friday at Marco Simone, Schauffele expressed utter excitement along with accompanying nervousness about doing well. However, he seemed to have an outlook ready for his first short.

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Per the star, his focus will be on trying to hit the shot as hard as possible, similar to his previous performance. While addressing the importance of a good start, the American professional also reflected on the patriotic feeling behind the game. Answering the “special” factor about representing the country, Xander Schauffele called it an “honor” to be able to wear the colors of the flag.

He extended his answer to it being a common emotion among all Americans playing; otherwise, one wouldn’t play. His reply reflected a sense of pride in grabbing the prestigious spot, along with being grateful for all the success that has come his way.

With that, what do you think of Xander Schauffele’s nonchalance toward the previous losses? How do you think the star and his team will perform at the Ryder Cup? Let us know in the comments.

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