World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler has issued an ominous warning to his rivals, particularly Rory McIlroy, by declaring he feels "really close" to hitting peak form.
Despite not having secured a PGA Tour win this year, Scheffler remains confident his next victory is just around the corner.
His consistent presence at the top end of leaderboards suggests McIlroy's recent dominance could soon face a serious challenge.
Scheffler carded a final-round 70 on Sunday at the RBC Heritage in South Carolina, finishing at 12-under par.
Scottie Scheffler has told his golf rivals that he is close to his best again
GettyThis performance secured him yet another top-10 finish on the PGA Tour, as he tied for eighth place.
The tournament was eventually won by Justin Thomas, who outplayed Andrew Novak in a playoff to claim the Signature Event title.
Despite not lifting the trophy, Scheffler's consistent showing kept him firmly in contention throughout.
The American golfer has been remarkably consistent throughout 2025, racking up an impressive series of top-10 finishes.
His year began with a tied ninth at the Pebble Beach Pro-Am, followed by tied third at the Genesis Invitational.
Scheffler then secured second place at the Houston Open before finishing fourth at the Masters.
His latest top-10 at the RBC Heritage further demonstrates his steady form, even without a victory.
Speaking after his performance in South Carolina, Scheffler expressed optimism about his game.
"I think I'm really close. I feel like I did a lot of things well this week, just a few of the important shots I just didn't pull off. Outside of that it was a pretty solid week," he told reporters.
The two-time major champion acknowledged he "needed a few more shots out there" but remained confident in his overall form.
Scottie Scheffler finished three shots behind Rory McIlroy at this year's MastersGETTYMcIlroy currently stands as the man to beat in golf, having secured three PGA Tour victories this year.
The Northern Irishman recently completed the career Grand Slam with his Masters triumph last week.
McIlroy is set to return to action at the Zurich Classic, where he will partner with Shane Lowry.
His hot streak has established him as the dominant force in golf, though Scheffler remains determined to reclaim momentum.
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Scottie Scheffler has insisted he is ready to hit his prime
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With the US PGA Championship looming, Scheffler's warning comes at a crucial time for both players.
The year's second major will provide a perfect stage for this developing rivalry between the world's top-ranked player and the newly-crowned Masters champion.
Scheffler remains determined to stay atop the Official World Golf Ranking and enhance his major resume beyond his two Masters victories.
McIlroy, meanwhile, will be looking to capitalise on his momentum and secure back-to-back major titles.
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