As the 2025 Ryder Cup approaches, the spotlight naturally falls on Scottie Scheffler, the world’s No. 1 golfer and a four-time major champion. His meteoric rise in the past few years has led many to wonder: Does his elite status grant him a unique position within Team USA? Justin Thomas, a seasoned Ryder Cup veteran and Scheffler’s close friend, offers a refreshing perspective on this topic.

In a recent press conference, Thomas was asked whether Scheffler’s accomplishments set him apart from the rest of the team.

His response was unequivocal: “He’s definitely one of 12 when it comes to the team. I think it is very cool and unique that everybody on our team is. It’s not like Scottie gets more points for winning a match than I do or J.J. Spaun or Collin Morikawa or Xander, whatever it is. At the end of the day, it’s just all about going and winning your point.”

Thomas emphasized that regardless of individual accolades, every player is equally valuable in the team’s pursuit of victory.

However, when probed about whether Scheffler possesses an “aura” that commands special treatment, Thomas was candid and blunt: “It’s a good question. I don’t know. He doesn’t to me, but I also feel like I know him well enough that even if he did, I wouldn’t give him that credit and let that get to his head because he’s competitive and can get chirpy enough, that’s the last thing I need him knowing that if I did feel that way.”

Thomas’s response highlights the camaraderie and mutual respect within the team. While acknowledging that others might perceive Scheffler differently, he remains steadfast in treating him as an equal.

Scheffler himself has expressed his thoughts on the dynamics of team events. Reflecting on the long gap between the end of the PGA Tour season and the Ryder Cup, he remarked: “I find it really weird there’s four or five weeks between the end of our season and a huge team event.”

Despite the unusual timing, Scheffler emphasized the importance of preparation and rest, aiming to strike a balance that ensures peak performance during the Ryder Cup.

Thomas, too, has built an impressive career with standout achievements, including capturing the 2017 PGA Championship, claiming victories at the 2020 WGC-FedEx St. Jude Invitational and the 2021 PLAYERS Championship, earning the PGA Tour Player of the Year award in 2017, and reaching the World No. 1 ranking in 2018. These milestones reflect his consistency, skill, and status among golf’s elite, establishing him as one of the premier players of his generation.

The 2025 U.S. Ryder Cup team, captained by Keegan Bradley, boasts a mix of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers. Notably, Bradley chose not to select himself to play, focusing entirely on his leadership role. Justin Thomas’ candid insights shed light on the egalitarian spirit that permeates Team USA. While Scottie Scheffler’s individual accomplishments are commendable, within the confines of the Ryder Cup, he stands shoulder to shoulder with his teammates. In this environment, individual distinctions take a backseat to the overarching goal: winning as a team. As Thomas aptly put it, every player, regardless of their individual achievements, is equally crucial to the team’s success.

While Justin Thomas stresses that Scottie Scheffler is “just one of 12” on Team USA, Scheffler himself reinforces the same message, rejecting claims of an aura of individual dominance and focusing entirely on teamwork. The world No. 1 may command attention for his record-breaking season, but at Bethpage Black, he makes it clear that preparation, collaboration, and equal footing with his teammates define his approach to the Ryder Cup.

Scottie Scheffler is embracing team unity

As the 2025 Ryder Cup approaches, Scottie Scheffler, the world No. 1 golfer, is poised for his third appearance in the prestigious event. Despite his individual success, including six victories this year and over $95 million in career earnings, Scheffler remains grounded and emphasizes the importance of team unity.

He states, “On our team, I think we have 12 guys that are all equal. I don’t think one player is more important than another.”

Scheffler’s approach contrasts with the legacy of Tiger Woods, whose presence often cast a long shadow over his teammates.

Reflecting on Woods’ influence, Scheffler notes, “I think some of the difficulty you had with playing with Tiger… it could just be the aura that was Tiger Woods.”

In contrast, Scheffler aims to be an approachable and collaborative teammate, stating, “I’d like to think I’m not difficult to pair with people.”His demeanor is evident in his practice routines. Moreover, the world no. 1 was paired with Bryson in 2021, who fans and critics believe is the most difficult to pair. The pair is supposedly making an entrance this year as well, and even Scheffler looks forward to “unleash Bryson.”

At Bethpage Black, fans eagerly awaited his arrival, cheering his name as he made his way to the putting green. After a series of putts, he took the time to sign flags for young fans, exemplifying his commitment to both the game and its supporters.

Scheffler’s focus remains on preparation and performance. He emphasizes, “What I focus on when I show up to tournaments is my preparation… I can tell myself on the tee that I did every last little thing that I could in order to play well.”

This mindset underscores his dedication to excellence without succumbing to external pressures. As Team USA gears up for the Ryder Cup, Scheffler’s humility and team-first mentality serve as a testament to his character. His approach not only enhances team cohesion but also sets a standard for future generations of golfers.