What Scottie Scheffler said after Rory McIlroy’s Masters win that Nelly Korda should remember

Even though she’s cooled off since then, Korda is still putting up solid numbers – averaging under 70 per round with a +2.33 strokes gained total.

The question now is how she finds those small improvements that can help her climb back to world number one and start winning again.

Korda has spoken before about how much she respects Scheffler. Back in May, he made a comment that could offer her exactly the motivation she needs to get back on track.

Scottie Scheffler’s reaction after Rory McIlroy won the Masters

Scheffler, ever the sportsman, looked genuinely pleased for McIlroy as he slipped the green jacket over his shoulders at Augusta National back in April.

But there was clearly a competitive spark behind that smile. Speaking to reporters after his first win of the season at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson in May, Scheffler admitted that seeing McIlroy win gave him an extra push to work even harder on his own game.

“I think any time somebody has beaten any of us out here, I think we’re all — I guess you could say inspired, but I think we’re all fired up to come out here and compete,” he said. “I think that’s what’s great about our game. Week in and week out, we get to come out here and compete.”

“This week I was the best player. I have the week off, and we’ll see the week after who is the best player at the PGA,” he continued.

“Rory has been playing some tremendous golf this year. The career grand slam was really special to watch. I was glad to be able to be there for it. I think any time you’re getting beat, you’re always fired up just a little bit extra to go out and practice. I feel like my game is trending in a good direction. I’m excited to start the rest of the season.”

Korda now needs to look closely at Scheffler’s response after being knocked off her perch by Thitikul.

Korda could learn from Scheffler’s mindset

Korda may need to go back and reassess what’s been missing from her game this season. It might come down to finding that extra bit of drive to put more work into her preparation.

She’ll be eager to add to her 15 career victories and two major titles, both of which she picked up in 2024.

Statistically, Korda’s performances have still been strong. In another year, the same level of play might have resulted in multiple wins.

The LPGA Tour is increasingly competitive, with a new wave of young talent entering the field every year.

It’s not just about keeping pace with the rising stars – it’s also about staying ahead of established rivals like Thitikul.

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Losing the top spot in the rankings could end up being a turning point for her. Sometimes a setback is exactly what’s needed to spark a resurgence.

Scheffler went on an incredible run following McIlroy’s Masters victory. If Korda takes that same approach, there’s no reason she can’t do something similar this season.