LA QUINTA (Calif.) — Xander Schauffele is excited to participate in The American Express this Week because he missed the FedEx Cup points opportunity at the Sentry Tournament of Champions, Hawaii two weeks ago. Schauffele was unable to play in the Sentry in Hawaii and had to withdraw due to back pain. This issue dates back to last fall.
Schauffele stated that the back was a sore this week. “Trying to be patient and take it slow so that you don’t get too many reps in. I guess this is stupid. However, I am known for trying to practice too much sometimes. “I’m trying to slow down so it doesn’t get hurt again.”
Schauffele only played in one fall event, a tie at the Zozo Championship for ninth. The American Express is his second chance to play in a full tournament and earn FedEx Cup points in the wraparound season. His American Express began with a solid 7-under 65 at La Quinta Country Club. He is tied for seventh with Davis Thompson, who is three shots behind.
Schauffele won three times last season, and he hopes that returning to California will kickstart his 2022-23 season.
“I would say that the West Coast is usually a nice coastline for me. Schauffele stated that he grew up on this coast and has been able to gain some points on the other side. Pros stock their calendars in whatever way they see fit. It’s great to win early and get points on the board. This gives you a lot of flexibility. You can take a tournament off if your tired, or add one if it’s more convenient. It’s a great feeling to win early.
Schauffele, like other pros in The American Express, said that he will be playing five of seven West Coast swing events, including the withdrawal at The Sentry. He will be missing the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and the Sony Open. Assuming his back is healthy.
Schauffele jokingly said, “I’m the golfer who is kind of like one more, and that’s like fifty.” You know what I mean? That’s me. So, I believe that all tour pros out there are guilty of being those people.
