Open Championship golfers and the British Open favorite to win ahead of the year's final major at Royal Portrush

Backspin: His year was slowed by a rib injury that kept him out for two months. Padraig Harrington (2007-08), Tiger Woods (2005-06) and Tom Watson (1982-83) are the only back-to-back Open champions the last 50 years.

World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler was a fountain of introspection Tuesday at his news conference entering the 2025 British Open, calling golf "an unsatisfying venture" and admitting that he often wrestles with motivation.

One would imagine three-time major champion Scottie Scheffler would be desperate to continue American domination of the British Open and lift the Claret Jug for the first time this week at Royal Portrush.

Xander Schauffele will look to defend his British Open title against a field led by Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler when the 153rd Open Championship begins at Royal Portrush on Thursday.

The world No. 1 gave one of the most revealing answers during his press conference on Tuesday in what turned into a therapy session of sorts for him.

For Tiger Woods, golf was his life. It defined him, drove him. Perhaps Scottie Scheffler’s opposite attitude is what allows him to carry on so successfully and seamlessly.

Scottie Scheffler said on Tuesday he does "not care" about being the tournament favourite as he prepares for his latest tilt at a maiden British Open title this week at Royal Portrush."I could not care any less about being the favourite or not being the favourite,