Scottie Scheffler the favourite to join exclusive club of Masters greats

Defending champion Scottie Scheffler has the chance to join a highly exclusive club at Augusta National this week – by winning back-to-back Masters titles.

Only three players in history have won the tournament in consecutive years: Jack Nicklaus, Nick Faldo and Tiger Woods.

That is some company to keep but world No 1 Scheffler looks well-set to take his place alongside those legends of the sport.

The 26-year-old Texan will be the favourite to retain his title as he steps on to the first tee on Thursday.

So far this year, he has won two events and finished in the top 12 at his last nine tournaments.

And Woods, winner of five green jackets at Augusta, is backing Scheffler to add a second to his collection this week.

“What has allowed some of us to defend the title is understanding how to play it,” Woods said. “Scottie knows how to play this golf course.”

It helps to have a caddie of the calibre of Ted Scott on his bag. He was the caddie for Bubba Watson during his two Masters victories, and he was at Scheffler's side a year ago.

“I think the teamwork of player and caddie is so important here because there's so many variables that go on,” Woods said.

Scottie Scheffler with his caddie Ted Scott on the third hole during a practice round prior to The Masters at Augusta National on April 5, 2023. Getty

“The lies, the wind, the gusts, and knowledge of the golf course. There's so many things that can happen, and talking through each and every shot. We just don't go out there and say, ‘Yeah, you know, I have 152 yards, just go ahead and hit it.’”

A year ago, Scheffler took command with a second-round 67 that sent him to the weekend with a five-shot lead.

He wavered a bit on a windy Saturday, but bounced back for a 71 that kept