Scottie Scheffler’s fiery demeanor seemed to set the tone for the Americans during the first round of the 2024 Presidents Cup at the Royal Montreal Golf Club.
The United States won all five of its four-ball matches on Thursday, giving them a 5-0 lead heading into the second day of the four-day event.
According to Ryan Young of Yahoo Sports, this is just the third time a team has swept the first-round matches at the Presidents Cup. The U.S. last swept in 2000 and did it in 1994.
Scheffler and playing partner Russell Henley earned a pivotal 3 and 2 win over South Koreans Sungjae Im and Tom Kim in match No. 3. The top-ranked golfer in the world also displayed his competitive fire.
On hole No. 7, Kim made a birdie and started pumping his first. Scheffler followed it up with a birdie of his own, turning to Kim and asking, “What was that?”
It was surprising to see Scheffler wear his emotions on his sleeve. Perhaps he was thrilled he made a big shot at a major team competition, something he’s struggled to do in the past.
At the 2022 Presidents Cup, Scheffler lost three of his four matches. Additionally, he has a 2-2-3 record in two Ryder Cup appearances.
Scheffler seems more poised this year, which bodes well for the Americans. They clearly need him to keep delivering for the rest of the event.
Although the Americans swept the International team, captain Jim Furyk suggested many matches were closer than they should’ve been.
“Tough matches. A lot of them were 1 up, even the whole day,” Furyk said, per Young. “Our guys played great on the back nine. I would say, I hate to say it, it came down to a lot of putts … Our guys probably got the benefit of the doubt on that side of it, and I think it was the difference in a lot of matches. I think it was definitely a lot closer than 5-0.”
Tony Finau and Xander Schauffele almost lost to Ben An and Jason Day. Day missed a birdie on the par-3 17th hole, which ultimately cost them.
Regardless, the U.S. is still in a good position heading into foursome matches on Friday.
The Americans are aiming to win their 10th consecutive Presidents Cup. If Scheffler keeps prospering, that should bolster their chances.
