Despite layoff, Scheffler says game, desire sharp for PGA - ESPN

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Since world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler last carded a competitive golf round — a 3-shot win at the RBC Heritage last month, a week after securing his second Masters victory by 4 — Rory McIlroy has won two tournaments, Brooks Koepka has captured one and Scheffler has become a father.

The three-week hiatus is longer than Scheffler normally would take during the PGA Tour season but took into account the circumstances of wife Meredith's childbirth. Scheffler said Tuesday that he has been able to practice plenty at home in Dallas and feels ready to get back to competition this week at the PGA Championship.

«I'm definitely rested going into this week, for sure. I don't really feel like any rust has accumulated,» Scheffler said. «I'm able to do stuff at home to simulate tournament golf, especially on the greens, competing and gambling with my buddies. I don't really want to lose to them, either, so I was able to simulate a little bit of competition at home.»

Scheffler said the birth of his son, Bennett, on May 8 has so far forced him to be more efficient with his time while at home, making an effort to be as equally present as he is prepared for maintaining the high level of golf.

«I was at home working out on Sunday, and it was like the fastest workout I ever did at home, just because I was ready to go back in the living room and hang out with Mer and our son,» Scheffler said. «I think a lot of that will come naturally, just being as focused as I can and trying to stay present. When I'm out here at the golf course doing my job, I'm able to focus on that.»

Even though Scheffler already has three wins this season and is sporting the best ballstriking numbers since prime Tiger Woods, the 27-year-old said he has