Scheffler's Final-Round 68 Wasn't Enough — But It Showed Why He's Still the World's Best

Scottie Scheffler doesn't lose many tournaments where he shoots a final-round 68. But the 2026 Masters wasn't most tournaments.

The world's No. 1 ranked player entered Sunday's final round four shots behind Rory McIlroy and Cameron Young, a deficit that would have buried most players. Scheffler's response was clinical: a bogey-free start, patient birdie conversions, and a signature Houdini birdie at the 15th hole — where he navigated tree branches and pin straw to reach the green and drain a lengthy putt.

Scheffler finished at 11-under par, good for solo second place, one stroke behind McIlroy. It was the kind of performance that reinforced his standing as the most consistent player in the world, even in a week where the trophy went to someone else.

What made Scheffler's Sunday remarkable was the context. He opened the tournament with an eagle and a birdie on his first two holes, reaching 3-under early before cooling off. His Friday and Saturday rounds were solid but unspectacular, leaving him chasing a lead that seemed insurmountable.

But Scheffler has made a career of being the last man standing. His ability to grind through difficult conditions, manage his emotions, and execute under pressure is why he's been the world's top-ranked player for the better part of three years.

The Masters is the one major that has eluded his grasp in recent seasons, and Sunday's near-miss will fuel his motivation heading into the PGA Championship. If there's one player you'd bet on to channel a close loss into future dominance, it's Scheffler.

One shot short today. But the season is long, and Scottie Scheffler doesn't stay short for long.

One shot short today. But the season is long, and Scottie Scheffler doesn't stay short for long.