The Wanamaker Trophy, that imposing 27-pound silver chalice, stands at a towering 28 inches tall. It’s no wonder it’s known as the largest trophy in major golf; just lifting it in celebration after a PGA Championship victory demands some serious flexing from its holder’s biceps. But for Scottie Scheffler, the man at the center of this week’s headlines, the trophy is far from the centerpiece of his world.
When Scheffler returns to his home in Dallas’ Devonshire neighborhood, you won’t find his trophies on display for all to see. In fact, friends who’ve visited his home report a surprising absence of accolades on the walls or shelves. His buddy Frank Voigt from Royal Oaks Country Club has been there several times and has only glimpsed a trophy on one occasion—peering through the window of a 2012 GMC Yukon XL Scheffler sold last year. He jokingly calls the room where all his awards reside “the golf room,” which is decidedly humble for someone who’s made quite a name for himself in the golfing world.
“That’s where all my crap goes, literally,” he quipped, showcasing a self-deprecating humor that speaks to his down-to-earth persona.
The trophies are stowed away—though they did get a bit of a remodel last year thanks to his wife, Meredith. And while Scheffler jokes that they aren’t displayed nicely, Meredith, along with his father Scott, was quick to chime in, insisting that it’s “nice.” You can imagine Scheffler’s sheepish response, “OK, it’s nice,” reminiscent of a husband who knows better than to argue when family is involved.
It’s this blend of humility and fierce competitiveness that makes Scheffler such a compelling figure in golf. On one hand, we see him as the best golfer on the planet; on the other, he’s a devoted family man who strives to ensure that his achievements remain part of a balanced life—not his entire identity. That equilibrium was vividly on display during his dominant Sunday at the PGA Championship, where he turned up the intensity and proved his relentless drive.
By the time Scheffler sank the final putt, he appeared calm and collected. He shared congratulations with his caddie Ted Scott and playing partner Alex Noren, acknowledging the crowd with a simple nod. But then, amidst that calm exterior, the intensity erupted. Stomping his right foot, he released a booming “Yes!” into the air, tossing his Nike hat to the ground. The joy was palpable—a five-shot victory signifying his third major win, this one particularly meaningful as it came after the birth of his son, Bennett.
In a whirlwind of emotion, he sprinted to find his family, scooping up Meredith in a heartfelt embrace before moving on to Bennett, who is already a big part of Scheffler’s golfing journey. There was something special about this win; it was his first major as a father. Scottie wasted no time in sharing the joy of his victory with Bennett, wrapping him in his arms and later involving him in the post-match festivities, making for some undeniably heartwarming moments that offered a glimpse into the man behind the trophy.
As the spotlight shined bright, Scheffler’s fierce competitiveness came through. He’s not just the guy who dominates the course; he’s also one who gets frustrated by losses, whether on the golf course or in a friendly pickleball match against some local competitors. His passion is explosive, whether he’s celebrating triumphs or wrestling with the turmoil of defeat, showcasing a characteristic intensity that fans and competitors alike have come to respect.
Despite this incredible victory, Scheffler remained focused on what’s next. When asked about his accomplishments, he responded with characteristic humility, steering the conversation away from his accolades and toward future competitions. “I don’t focus on that kind of stuff,” he explained, underscoring his drive to keep improving and keep moving forward.
In a moment of vulnerability, he admitted that golf can feel unending in its pursuit of perfection. “I wish I could soak this in a little bit more,” he reflected on his journey, conveying a sense of longing to appreciate the moment even as he strives for more. Yet, he’s learned to separate himself from the game as soon as the round is over—a skill that many players struggle to master.
Even on a tough Sunday where Scheffler didn’t play his best golf, he found a way to bounce back successfully. After initially losing a bit of control over his shots, he turned it around, regaining his confidence with a perfect drive on the 10th hole. His resilience shone through as he not only maintained his lead but also demonstrated his competitive spirit, ultimately sealing a commanding victory.
Scheffler’s connections extend beyond the greens; he values relationships, whether with family or his longtime caddie, Scott, who has been part of his journey since the beginning. Their bond is evident as they navigate both victories and setbacks, sharing stories and laughter along the way.
By the end of the championship, it wasn’t just about the trophy or the accolades. It was about the moments shared with family, about the joy in his son’s laughter, and the pride that comes from being a good husband and father.
When Scheffler raised Bennett high in celebration, it wasn’t just a victory lap for one of golf’s brightest stars; it was a beautiful reminder of what matters most—a commitment to family and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence.
So, where does that massive Wanamaker Trophy go? Perhaps it doesn’t matter much at all. What truly stands out is the profound connection he has cultivated with his loved ones and how that intertwines with his passion for the game. And as Scottie Scheffler continues this journey, both in competitive golf and in life, we can expect to see plenty more of both.
