Scottie Scheffler becoming the world's No 1 player hasn't been the biggest golf story in the build-up to Augusta - much to the American's relief.
Indeed, the headlines have been dominated by the return of Tiger Woods, who has confirmed his intention to play in the Masters against all the odds. Woods, 46, has not entered a pro-event since his high-speed car crash last February, which left him with multiple breaks in his legs.
Eyebrows were raised when the 15-time major winner was included in the provisional entry list for the year's first major last month, and when he then completed a practice round at the venue last week the speculation became frenzied. Sure enough, he flew back to Augusta on Sunday and after further practice sessions, on Tuesday told reporters: “As of right now, I feel I am going to play."
Furthermore, when asked if he was back to compete for a sixth green jacket, he replied "I am." The developments have stirred memories of his last Masters win in 2019, which came after he returned from multiple back surgeries.
And his story has overshadowed the notion that the event is shaping up to be one of the most wide-open of all time, with a host of high-quality players on the mix. One of those is Scheffler, who overtook Jon Rahm at the top of the rankings after winning the WGC match play in Austin.
The 25-year old is yet to truly shine at Augusta, with a finish of tied 18th in 2021 representing his best effort so far. A tied-fourth placing at the 2020 US PGA represents his best performance at a major.
However, he shone in Team USA's emphatic Ryder Cup win in September, beating Rahm in his singles match, and has been tipped to challenge this time around. And he welcomes the fact that the presence of Woods has relieved the pressure on the likes of him.
"Tiger takes a lot of attention away from all of us, which I think is a good thing," Scheffler said. "He's used to being in the spotlight."
He added that he hoped the all-time great carried through with his promise to play: "Tiger is the needle for professional golf. We're all excited and hoping he's going to be able to play this week."
Scheffler's newfound status represents a huge moment in his career to date, but he insists things have still been business as usual. Other than that fact he's become the target of jokes in certain quarters, that is.
"Outside of the guys saying congrats, I wouldn't say too much has changed," he said. "My friends are still making fun of me. I've still got to do my chores at home, and nothing really changes."
Despite officially being the best player on the planet, Scheffler is only third favourite with the bookies for Augusta. US Open champion Rahm is favourite, ahead of Justin Thomas.
