The Open 2025: Is it all over or can Scottie Scheffler be caught by chasing pack?

Scheffler is, for the most part, not a big talker. But others were more than happy to do so on the Olympic gold medallist’s behalf after Saturday’s exhibition.

McIlroy, the nearest man to the American in the rankings and the most recent to join the Grand Slam club, called him “incredibly impressive”.

“I don’t think it’s a surprise – he’s playing like Scottie,” said the Northern Irishman, who was handed his Green Jacket by deposed champion Scheffler in April.

“Everyone’s seen the way he’s played over the past two or three years. He’s just so solid. He doesn’t make mistakes. He’s turned himself into a really consistent putter as well, so there doesn’t seem to be any weakness there.

“Whenever you’re chasing down a guy like that, it’s hard to do.”

Robert MacIntyre is 14th in the world but concedes the gap between himself and Scheffler is absolutely vast.

“At the start of this year, when we checked the stats, Scheffler was further ahead of No 2 in the world than I was at 15th or 16th to the number two,” the Scot said.

“He’s an exceptional player and a great guy, and works so hard.”

Another of the world’s top 20, Harris English, has known Scheffler since their amateur days.

English said: “He’s unbelievable. He’s been number one for I don’t know how many weeks but he works harder than anybody I’ve ever seen. He works like he’s never going to play in another major championship ever again.

“He’s easy to root for. I can’t say anything bad about the guy. What he’s doing is incredible.”