Scottie Scheffler’s coach, Randy Smith, acknowledged that he’s facing a unique challenge with his star pupil this week.
In the heart of Houston, a notable golf instructor with nearly three decades of experience, Randy Smith, observes his star pupil, PGA Tour player Scottie Scheffler, at the Texas Children’s Houston Open. Smith, a revered figure in the golf world who teaches out of Royal Oaks Country Club in Dallas, faces an unconventional challenge with Scheffler. Their strategy? Surprisingly simple: “We’re working on nothing. Absolutely nothing,” Smith declares. “Just go play golf.”
This minimalist approach might seem overly simplistic for a Tour-level coach, especially when dealing with a golfer who has recently dominated the PGA Tour, securing back-to-back wins and showcasing unparalleled prowess in SG: Tee-to-Green, cementing his position at the pinnacle of the World Ranking. Yet, Smith’s philosophy is rooted in confidence—why alter a winning formula, especially when Scheffler’s performance has been nothing short of spectacular?
Scottie Scheffler, a name that resonates with excellence in the golf community, has been under Smith’s tutelage since he was around eight years old. Throughout his career, Smith has also mentored golf luminaries like Justin Leonard, Ryan Palmer, and D.A. Weibring. Today, he believes Scheffler’s focus and execution are unmatched, save for perhaps one other golfer in his extensive coaching tenure.
Scheffler’s recent performances have drawn attention and admiration from across the golf landscape, including from two-time Masters champion Ben Crenshaw. Crenshaw praises Scheffler’s pragmatic approach to practice and his mental resilience, crucial for conquering majors. Scheffler himself maintains a balanced perspective, focusing on maintaining a positive attitude and visualizing success, especially with the prestigious Masters Tournament on the horizon.
Calm demeanour and a supportive circle.
In his journey, Scheffler has navigated the pressures of the sport with a calm demeanour and a supportive circle, qualities that have served him well both on and off the course. As the last golfer to achieve three consecutive PGA Tour titles was Dustin Johnson in 2017, Scheffler eyes this remarkable feat while also setting his sights on a more immediate goal: securing his second green jacket at the upcoming Masters.
This intentionality extends to his preparation schedule, opting to compete in Houston as a strategic lead-up to the Masters, a tactic that has previously served him well. Scheffler’s approach to the game—emphasizing mental readiness over excessive practice—offers a refreshing perspective in the competitive realm of golf.
As Scottie Scheffler prepares for the next chapter in his illustrious career, his story is a testament to the power of simplicity, focus, and unwavering confidence in the game of golf. Through the guidance of Randy Smith and the support of the golfing community, Scheffler’s journey is a compelling narrative of mastery, resilience, and the pursuit of greatness on the greens.
