Scheffler Says He Savored the Claret Jug as He Prepares to Defend It

Overview

• Speaking at a presser in North Berwick on Wednesday, Scheffler said he is "not really a good reflector" and is concentrating on preparation at the Genesis Scottish Open rather than dwelling on last year’s win.
• He described enjoying possession of the Claret Jug after his Royal Portrush victory, recalling a private party in Dallas where he and friends drank from the Jug and the Wanamaker Trophy and a 10-year-old had lemonade from the trophy.
• Scheffler, who turned 30 on June 21, treated the milestone lightly with self-deprecating jokes but said he values the personal memories that came with his major wins.
• He said it will be "very tough to hand [the Claret Jug] back" and vowed he will be "fighting like heck" to try to retain the title at Royal Birkdale, using this week’s Scottish Open as a final tune-up.
• The Claret Jug is traditionally held by the Open champion for a year, making Scheffler’s possession symbolic, so bettors, fans and media will watch his form at Royal Birkdale to see if he can keep the trophy for another season.