The golf world was thrown into a swirl of speculation following the announcement that world number two Xander Schauffele would miss The American Express and the Farmers Insurance Open due to “medical issues.” Days later, details surfaced via Golf Channel’s Todd Lewis, confirming that Schauffele has been managing a right rib injury since late 2024.
The injury is not skeletal but involves soft tissue, a complication that Schauffele attempted to play through at The Sentry Tournament of Champions earlier this year. However, the discomfort has forced the 31-year-old to take a step back and avoid making full swings during his recovery.
“World #2 @XSchauffele has been bothered with a right rib injury since late last year. It is not skeletal but instead soft tissue. Played through the issue at @TheSentry but resting now and not making any full swings,” tweeted Todd Lewis.
Uncertain Return Timeline
Schauffele’s team has yet to confirm when he will return to competition, leaving doubt about his participation in upcoming events like the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. His absence is particularly notable as he was riding high after an outstanding 2024 season that included two Major victories and several other strong performances.
The injury comes as a blow to Schauffele, who is determined not to jeopardize his long-term health by pushing through the pain. While fans await his return, the extended rest period could impact his momentum as he competes to reclaim his position atop the golf world.
Impact on the Field
Interestingly, Scottie Scheffler, the current world number one, is also sidelined with an injury. Scheffler, who had a historic 2024 season, is reportedly eyeing a return at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, though his participation is still uncertain.
With both of golf’s top-ranked players out, the door is wide open for Rory McIlroy, ranked third in the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR), to seize the opportunity. The Northern Irishman has been vocal about his ambitions to reclaim the top spot in 2025, and this could be the perfect chance to close the gap.
A Window of Opportunity
Schauffele and Scheffler’s absence presents a rare window for other golfers to shine. Rising stars and seasoned veterans alike will aim to capitalize on the void left by two of the game’s biggest names. McIlroy, in particular, will be looking to make a statement as he targets another strong season after his consistent performances in 2024.
For now, fans can only hope that both Schauffele and Scheffler return healthy and ready to compete at the level that made them dominant forces in 2024. Until then, the PGA Tour’s leaderboard could see some unexpected shifts, adding intrigue to the early part of the 2025 season.