Scheffler and McIlory have both won the tournament in the past. McIlroy won The Players back in 2019, while Scheffler has won the last tournaments, with Schauffele finishing tied for second in 2024. Scheffler is the first player ever to win The Players in consecutive years, and is a favorite to win it for a third straight year.

For Rory McIlroy, it's been feast or famine at The Players Championship entering 2025. Now McIlroy, and other golfers, have a new obstacle to face.

Scheffler is a combined 37-under-par the last two years at TPC Sawgrass, 12 shots better than any other player.

After no-names won 3 of the last 5 PGA Tour events, it'd be good thing if Players had Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy or some star in winner's circle.

Rory McIlroy remains in the prime of his career. Nevertheless, despite being far from the end, the four-time major winner insists he has no intention of becoming someone pursuing past glory that has already slipped beyond reach.

Rory McIlroy was in a relaxed mood as he made his final preparations ahead of the Players Championship, with the Northern Irishman sharing a joke with Scottie Scheffler.