Schauffele puts Masters rivals on notice with | Golf News

American Xander Schauffele shared his ideas on European rival Robert MacIntyre’s prospects of contending for victory at the Masters, as the Scotsman continues his upward trajectory.

MacIntyre has secured two PGA Tour victories and one on the DP World Tour, but the 29-year-old has yet to declare a major title. He got here agonizingly close at the 2025 U.S. Open but could not surpass J.J. Spaun.

Schauffele spoke to TourMiss, reflecting on his profession and the time the pair spent competing together during the ultimate spherical of the 2026 Players Championship.

“It was nice playing with Bob, as I’ve got to know him quite a bit,” said Schauffele. “He’s a great player and we saw at last year’s US Open and then heading into the BMW Championship (PGA Tour) a few weeks later and also finishing runner-up there, and then winning the Dunhill Links in his beloved Scotland.

“So, he had a actually good stretch of golf there. He’s also just develop into a father, as nicely. So, we had a few issues we might discuss about that closing spherical of The Players.

“So, can Bob win a major? For sure he can. Absolutely. He’s got the game to win at this sport’s highest level. I think he’s already proved that himself.

“When you are that close coming down the stretch, you just know you can be in that spot again, and if you may keep affected person enough, it can occur.

“At a personal level, I don’t know him all that well. I do know he’s from a little town in Scotland called Oban. Where he is strong is through the bag, and that’s what you need to do at the game’s highest level.”

With Augusta National on the horizon, Schauffele outlined his priorities after recording top-25 finishes in each of his first 5 Tour begins this season.

“It’s kind of important at this time of year to be thinking about the shots you will need to play when you get to Augusta.

“For me, it is most likely focusing more on getting my short recreation sorted and strive hitting the putts that are going to break a bit more than most of the other putts you may hit.”