LA QUINTA (Calif.) Xander Schauffele admitted that he isn’t feeling 100% after returning to The American Express from a back injury two weeks ago. Schauffele stated Thursday that his symptoms are sporadic at the moment. “Bad swings don’t feel great. “Good swings don’t feel terrible.” He made many good swings during his competitive return. Schauffele opened The American Express Thursday at La Quinta CC with a 7-under 65, three behind leader Davis Thompson, who recorded 10-under 62 at La Quinta. The American Express offers a three-course rotation at La Quinta CC, PGA West’s Nicklaus Tournament Course, and Stadium Course. Sunday’s final round will take place on the Stadium Course. Schauffele, playing alongside Patrick Cantlay (Presidents Cup partner), rebounded from his one bogey at No. 2, with six birdies and an Eagle the rest of his round. His good play was due to his tee shot control on the tree-lined La Quinta course. He hit 10 of the 14 fairways that day. Schauffele pulled out of the Sentry at the ninth hole, “flinching at drives” – he later said. He returned home to undergo scans and an MRI, in order to diagnose his back pain. This was the first time in his career. It first arose in December at the Hero World Challenge. The diagnosis was simple – there was no tear – and he had to rest for the soreness. This is not an easy task. Schauffele stated Wednesday that she was trying to be patient and not rush to get too many reps in. “But I am known for trying to practice too often at times. Schauffele was careful to slow down, so that it doesn’t get hurt again. The week was one of wait-and-see. He was ready to go on Thursday morning. Schauffele stated Thursday that he jokes with his wife about how he’s a very daily person. It was challenging my patience with the day-to day. Some days I felt 4 or 5 out 10 and other days I was like 50-50. You want to play at a high level and not be able to perform as well. “I wouldn’t say that I’m 100%, a lot is mental at this stage. It becomes very mental when you feel any kind of injury or tweak. You have to fight that. “Just trying to be committed, knowing I have a great team around me, and trusting everyone that’s giving advice to me.” With more rounds like Thursday, everything should be fine. He said that if he keeps making good swings, he should be fine.
By: Kevin Prise
Title: Still not 100%, Xander Schauffele opens in 65 at The American Express
Sourced From: www.pgatour.com/news/2023/01/19/still-not-100-percent-xander-schauffele-opens-in-65-at-the-american-express.html
Published Date: Thu, 19 Jan 2023 20:40:00 -0500
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