Scottie Scheffler is expected to notch at least two additional PGA Tour wins in 2026, according to former tour pro Johnson Wagner, who believes the world‑number‑one can still clinch the FedEx Cup despite recent runner‑up finishes.
What did Wagner say?
On the Golf on CBS YouTube channel, Wagner was asked who he sees as the current Player of the Year and who will finish the season on top. He named Matt Fitzpatrick as the frontrunner now, but warned that Scheffler’s consistency could flip the race.
Wagner said, “I see him winning at least two more times, probably the FedEx Cup as well.” He highlighted Scheffler’s lead in the FedEx Cup points list, noting that each second‑place finish widens the gap.
How has Scheffler performed so far?
Scheffler’s 2026 campaign includes a single victory, four runner‑up finishes—including a second place at The Masters—and nine top‑five finishes across 14 starts. He has logged 12 top‑20 finishes, showing he’s in contention nearly every week.
His most recent near‑miss came at the Travelers Championship, where he fell to Viktor Hovland in a first‑hole playoff, marking his second playoff loss of the year. Earlier, Matt Fitzpatrick beat him in a dramatic finish at the RBC Heritage, giving the European a 2‑0 record against Scheffler this season.
Why does this matter for the Player‑of‑the‑Year race?
Fitzpatrick already has three wins this season, three different signature events, and a solid major finish (T14 at the PGA Championship). Wagner still believes the weight of Scheffler’s high finishes—especially his top‑five at The Masters and the U.S. Open—could outweigh pure win totals.
If Scheffler captures the two wins Wagner predicts, his FedEx Cup lead and strong major showings could tip the scales in his favor, despite Fitzpatrick’s three‑win tally.
What’s next for Scheffler?
The next few weeks feature key FedEx Cup events where a win would solidify Scheffler’s lead. With the points race tightening, a victory would not only add to his win column but also cement his status as the likely Player of the Year.
Wagner’s confidence suggests that Scheffler’s game is clicking again, and the tour will likely see him break through the playoff barrier that has held him back this season.
How does this affect fans and sponsors?
A surge in wins would boost Scheffler’s marketability, reinforcing his position as the sport’s top American face. Sponsors eyeing the FedEx Cup champion stand to benefit from his heightened visibility, especially as the season heads into its climax.
Overall, Wagner’s projection adds a compelling storyline to a season where Scheffler’s consistency is already evident, and a couple of timely victories could rewrite the narrative entirely.