Australian golfing icon Adam Scott might be embracing the role of the seasoned veteran, but the 2013 Masters champion has made it clear he has no intention of hanging up his clubs anytime soon. The former world number one, who celebrated his 45th birthday in July, remains fiercely competitive and driven to add more silverware to his already illustrious career.
The Mindset of a Champion
Ahead of the Australian PGA Championship at Brisbane's Royal Queensland Golf Club, Scott reflected on his evolving status in the sport. "I'm starting to turn into that kind of old golf pro who's out there," the 14-time PGA Tour winner admitted. He recalled his own perceptions when he turned professional in 2000, looking at players his current age and considering them ancient. Now, he finds himself in that very position.
However, any thoughts of retirement are far from his mind. "I feel, physically and mentally, able to do it still," Scott stated emphatically. "I'm not in the 'aches and pains' phase yet, and I'm really motivated to, until I get to that point, try and keep competing." This resilience was evident earlier this year when, after missing the Masters cut for the first time since 2009, he bounced back in torrid conditions to feature in the final group at the US Open.
A Career Built on Consistency and Exemptions
Scott's longevity in the game is nothing short of remarkable. It has been 12 years since his historic major victory at the 2013 Masters and more than two decades since he clinched the Players Championship at the record age of 23. His dedication is highlighted by an incredible streak of 97 consecutive major championship appearances, a record of consistency second only to the legendary Jack Nicklaus, who made 146.
His ability to continue competing at the highest level has been secured for the immediate future. Scott activated a little-known two-year PGA Tour exemption by qualifying for the 2024 Tour Championship, ensuring his coveted majors streak remains alive. This means that only poor health would prevent him from continuing his remarkable run, something he confidently dismisses as an issue.
Focus Firmly on the Future
When asked about his future plans, Scott's response was straightforward: "I don't really have any other plans." He firmly believes he remains a relevant force in modern golf. "I still feel like by some of the indicators that everyone judges the game by today, I'm relevant. I've still got the game to compete at the highest level."
While he acknowledges that his scheduling isn't entirely within his control at the moment, describing himself as "a little bit on the back foot," he knows that fortunes in golf can change in an instant. "A couple of weeks and you're firing again," he noted. His strategy is simple and focused: winning tournaments. For Adam Scott, that primary goal is what ultimately takes care of everything else.
