Scheffler Says "Proud to Win at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson" (Comprehensive)

Dominant Performance Over Four Days: An Eight-Shot Victory
Creating Unforgettable Memories in His Second Hometown, Dallas
"It Feels Like It Will Be a Truly Special Day"

"I won at a tournament that means a lot to me."

World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler (USA) was overwhelmed with emotion after completing a dominant victory by eight strokes (31-under-par 253) at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson (total prize money: $9.9 million), which concluded on May 4 (local time) at TPC Craig Ranch (par 71, 7,569 yards) in McKinney, Texas. Scheffler recalled, "This tournament really means a lot to me," and added, "It was the first professional tournament I ever played in, 11 years ago." He continued, "It feels like I've worked and sacrificed my whole life for this moment," and became emotional, saying, "It's really special."

Scottie Scheffler is giving an interview immediately after winning the CJ Cup Byron Nelson. McKinney, USA - Photo by Noh Rae

Scheffler's first win of the season was especially meaningful because it came at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson, held in the Dallas area, which he considers his hometown. Although he was born in Ridgewood, New Jersey, he has lived in Dallas since the age of six and regards Dallas as his second home. In 2014, while still in high school, he was given a sponsor’s exemption to play in this tournament, marking his first experience at a PGA Tour event, and after turning professional, he played in it four more times through 2023. Last year, he skipped the event as he was expecting the birth of his first child.

Scheffler began playing golf in Dallas and attended the prestigious University of Texas. As a child, he even met the 'legend of golf' Byron Nelson (USA) and took a commemorative photo with him. Scheffler said, "Byron was a wonderful person who made a great impact on the golf world," and added, "He valued his family deeply. I’m proud to have won a tournament that carries his name."

Scottie Scheffler is smiling while holding the trophy right after winning the CJ Cup. McKinney, USA - AP Yonhap News Photo by AP

Immediately after his victory, Scheffler lifted the specially crafted trophy from CJ and beamed with joy. He said, "I think the trophy is really cool. To have my name on it makes me proud," and smiled, adding, "I should learn some Korean from Kim Siwoo so I can read this."

He also shared his thoughts on K-food. "The food was really delicious. I heard about 20 chefs worked hard for us," Scheffler said. "I had ribs, vegetables, grilled chicken, and various kinds of chicken dishes, including Dakgangjeong. I think I ate a lot of chicken, but anyway, everything was so tasty."

He also expressed his gratitude to his sponsor, CJ Group. "I’m grateful that CJ sponsors this tournament. It means a lot to me and to the local community. By sponsoring this event, CJ has built a great partnership with the Dallas Salesmanship Club. I appreciate their generous support for this tournament and for the PGA Tour."