Tennis

Xander Schauffele Responds to “Choker” Criticism After The Players Championship

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Xander Schauffele sparked a lot of reactions after yet another performance, this time at The Players Championship over the weekend. This brilliant golfer held a one-stroke lead heading into the final round of this tournament, often referred to as the ‘fifth major’. 

However, this 30-year-old golfer went bogey-bogey on holes 14 and 15, which Scheffler capitalized on, confirming his dominance by claiming the trophy. Scottie impressed many by breaking records and became the first golfer to defend the title at this event. 

Xander finished one shot back in T2. 

Xander Schauffele drew anger towards himself, as he did not deliver his best when it mattered most. Fans of this golfer, as well as golf fans in general, are frustrated with his performances, especially during crucial moments. Some began calling him a ‘choker’ on social media. 

Strong reactions were expected from this 30-year-old golfer. However, Schauffele understands the fans’ reactions. He did not anticipate such outcomes and events on the final day. Nevertheless, he believes that the future may bring something better for him.

“Yeah, I’m going to lick my wounds. I’ll probably join them in the hatred at this moment, but it is what it is. These —-. When I went to bed last night, it’s not exactly how I envisioned walking off the 18th green. I’ll lick my wounds and right back to it next week.”-Xander Schauffele said, as quoted by golfmagic.com

Schauffele will have the opportunity to forget about this already this week, as he will be competing in the Valspar Championship. Judging by the bookmakers’ odds and fan reactions, Xander will be the top favorite to win this competition. This popular golfer has no intention of getting upset and dwelling on what happened, aware that it will not bring him anything positive. Schauffele is happy that he managed to compete with the best and be so close to victory. It is an indicator that he truly possesses qualities and is in great form. This is the momentum he wants and must use while waiting for this week’s competition. He is optimistic about Valspar and his previous great performances at this tournament.

“Yeah, I take a ton of positives. I haven’t cracked an egg since they moved this tournament to this time of year. To hang in there with the best of them is good for me to know. I came in second — lost by a lot though to Webb [Simpson], I believe, when it was firm and fast. That second felt different. This one —– a little bit more, but just another close call.”- Schauffele said.

Xander Schauffele and his mindset

Xander Schauffele is a golfer who has already gained experience and is well acquainted with the golf scene. Over the years, he has realized what is crucial to becoming a top golfer. However, there are plenty of things you cannot control. Expecting to give your best performance in every tournament is not possible. Few golfers manage to do that. He is nevertheless aware that if he wants to achieve victories and potentially win Majors, he ‘must go through the fire’. Today’s golf scene boasts a lot of quality and promising golfers who can disrupt your plans at any moment.

Xander Schauffele

Xander Schauffele© Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images Sport

 

“I tell myself all the time, if you’re trying to win you’ve got to walk through the fire. And if you’re able to walk through unscathed, then you’re going to win the tournament.”

The 30-year-old golfer has relied on comments and advice from his father that have been in his mind since the first day of his career. Although his father emphasized the importance of accepting negative outcomes, Schuaffele struggles to accept his poor performances. Despite having control over his destiny, he failed to showcase his best in the crucial moment. However, this could only be a valuable lesson for him in the future.

“My dad told me a long time ago to commit, execute and accept. I’m swallowing a heavy dose of acceptance right now, but that’s kind of what I did. I tried to commit, I executed poorly on some shots, and here I am accepting it.”- Xander Schauffele said.

The Valspar Championship is a professional golf tournament that will take place at the Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club in Palm Harbor. This tournament has been played for 24 years. Taylor Moore is the latest winner of this tournament, while before him Sam Burn won this competition twice. Xander has not had the opportunity to win this tournament where stars have played, and it will be the same this time. This is a great chance for him to correct his mistakes and play a great tournament.

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