Xander Schauffele is aiming to make a return to the PGA Tour in the upcoming Arnold Palmer Invitational, presented by Mastercard. Schauffele is confident about his return to Bay Hill after an unplanned hiatus caused by a rib fracture sustained in the offseason.
Dan Rapaport shared the initial news with X. Schauffele expressed his optimism for the Arnold Palmer Invitational on March 6-9. Schauffele could be back in the game after a two-month hiatus. This is a major setback for him, especially since he had a successful start to 2024 with two victories.
Xander Schauffele is hopeful to compete at the Arnold Palmer Invitational next week. A decision is expected later this week.
The world’s No. The world’s No. 2 has not competed since January. Due to an injury, 2 events were missed. The timing was not ideal. pic.twitter.com/4h9MtqJL2F
— Dan Rapaport (@Daniel_Rapaport) February 26, 2025
Schauffele has previously highlighted how important it is to play in the Arnold Palmer Invitational in order to be prepared for the Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club. Schauffele said to Golfweek, “Taking off the Genesis gives me 3 weeks prior Bay Hill.” “I’m trying to rack up as many practice rounds before The Masters. I would like to start the competitive spirit a little before the big event, and with the Players right around the corner. The commitment of his to the highest level at all major championships is evident.
The initial injury was a minor one, and Schauffele played in The Sentry on Kapalua as well as a match early with New York Golf Club, his TGL Team. The persistent pain forced him to prioritise recovery in order to be at his best for major events, including the PGA Championship as well as The Open Championship.
Schauffele is still involved in his TGL club, New York Golf Club, despite his personal pursuits. Schauffele recently watched the match between Los Angeles Golf Club and New York Golf Club to show his dedication to his team, despite being injured. New Yorkers are currently in fourth place in the TGL standings and need to perform well in their last match against Boston Common Golf in order to qualify for the semifinals.
Xander has played at Bay Hill three times in his Arnold Palmer Invitational history. His PGA Tour record shows his talent, even if his top finish in 2020 was a tied for 24th. The PGA Tour has awarded him nine PGA Tour titles, including two majors. His 46 top-10 results have also helped to cement his position as one the world’s best golfers, according the Official World Golf Ranking.
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