For many pro golfers, a five-month gap without a PGA Tour victory is not uncommon. However, for world No.1 Scottie Scheffler, this interval might raise concerns. The Travelers Championship challenges such perceptions, though, as Scheffler still waits to see if the streak will break.
Scheffler and Viktor Hovland ended the regular play tied at 21-under on Sunday at TPC River Highlands. This finish set the stage for a rare Monday playoff due to prior weather conditions and fading light. They are scheduled to start this decider at 9 a.m. ET on the par-4 18th hole.
The playoff implements a sudden death format. The player with the lower score on a playoff hole secures the title. If a tie occurs, play continues until a winner emerges. Scheffler seeks to end his winless streak, but it persists for now.
For Viktor Hovland, it presents another chance to challenge the best golfer globally after maintaining pressure in a tense final round amidst rain delays.
Scheffler has only one victory in 2026, earned back in January at The American Express. Despite this, he hasn’t performed poorly. Instead, he has thrived with eight top-five finishes in 13 starts, including a win at The American Express and second place at the Masters, RBC Heritage, and Cadillac Championship. Recently, he secured third at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson and tied for fourth at the U.S. Open.
Scheffler approaches another opportunity to capture a trophy, but he has a night to contemplate it.
Beginning the final round one shot behind Hovland, Scheffler played through intense competition in Connecticut. His first three days included shooting a 64, nearly making history with a 59 on Friday, settling at 60, and recording a 67 on Saturday, positioning him second.
Scheffler, known for calm and consistent play, needed more than 72 holes this time. Hovland, maintaining his lead with initial birdie on Saturday, bogeyed his first Sunday hole, tying with Scheffler.
Both players had moments of struggle. Scheffler played an even front nine, while Hovland fell further with a 36. Many players, including Collin Morikawa, who finished at 20-under, seemed poised to challenge Scheffler, but Hovland was the main rival.
Scheffler strategically birdied the 10th and 13th holes, seizing a one-shot advantage. However, rain interrupted, and upon resumption, Hovland quickly bridged the gap by birdying the 14th and 15th, equaling Scheffler’s standing.
Both players remained level heading to the last hole. Scheffler’s birdie attempt on the 17th narrowly missed. On the 18th, Hovland and Scheffler both approached competently. Scheffler’s attempt fell short, but Hovland missed his birdie putt too. Scheffler maintained composure, sinking his crucial putt, ensuring the playoff.
The upcoming playoff is the first Monday playoff since Rory McIlroy’s win over J.J. Spaun at the 2025 Players Championship last March. This playoff between Hovland and Scheffler will be simpler, returning players to the 18th hole with sudden death rules.
Scheffler has a history of success at the Travelers. In 2024, he defeated Tom Kim in a playoff for his first victory at TPC River Highlands. His familiarity and comfort with this course might work in his favor.
Still, his streak persists. For Scheffler, dry spells may equate to career highlights for others. He consistently remains top-ranked, achieving numerous top finishes in significant golf tournaments.
The Travelers presents another chance for Scheffler to quell rumors of a decline due to prolonged winless periods. As Hovland extended the contest into Monday, Scheffler must focus on the task ahead and seize the victory to conclude his drought.
Whether or not Scheffler claims victory Monday, his skills and form remain unquestionable.
Dan Zaksheske reports for OutKick.