Rory McIlroy fails to get Scottie Scheffler reaction as Ludvig Aberg shows true colours

Golf fans everywhere were stunned by 's mesmerising win at the . Yet the relentless pace of the means there is time to revel in that glorious moment too long. The RBC Heritage in South Carolina beckons this weekend, and despite the lingering awe over McIlroy's Augusta showdown, the show must go on.

Rory's dramatic play-off victory to claim his first green jacket and complete the fabled career Grand Slam is a tale that will inspire for years to come. Although not seemingly impacted by this narrative is , who returns as the defending champion at the RBC Heritage this week. The PGA Tour itself is set to see considerable benefits from McIlroy's milestone-the star's first major win in 11 years. Yet for some like Scheffler, the focus remains on the immediate challenge ahead as Express Sport provides the lowdown on the latest headlines from around the world of golf.

Scheffler not looking up to Rory

Two-time Masters champion Scheffler faces the media ahead of his title defence in Harbour Town, where he dodged the suggestion that McIlroy's sensational performance could serve as inspiration. Seven years younger than McIlroy but standing tall as the world No1, Scheffler seems unfazed by the comparison and suggested his own achievements are motivation enough.

"The feeling you get from winning a tournament is a pretty special feeling," he told reporters this week. "For me, I wished it lasts longer than it [does]. It doesn't really last very long. Watching anybody accomplish anything in golf - it takes a lot of work.

"I don't really think very often about career goals, or anything like that. I try to do my best to stay in the present. Was it pretty awesome watching Rory win the Grand Slam? Yeah, of course it was. But as far as my life goes, I try to stay in the present. And so right now, I'm focused on this week, and then when I get home next week, I'm gonna be preparing for my next tournament."

The 28-year-old added that his personal motivation is "all internal," implying the decision to reject Rory as his muse isn't a personal one. Then again, considering his success on the Tour over the past few years, one can hardly fault him.

McIlroy's Masters could result in PGA payday

There's nothing quite like your top ambassador winning arguably the most prestigious individual prize in one's field. Therefore, it's not surprising the PGA Tour is looking to make the most of McIlroy's Masters victory and maximise profits.

Negotiations are underway for the PGA Tour's UK television rights, but according to , Sky Sports may now be expected to fork out a higher sum. This comes after a peak audience of 1.85million tuned in to watch the Northern Irishman narrowly beat Justin Rose in Georgia, which accounted for 37% of total TV viewership in the UK.

That's in addition to the record 7.5m people who tuned into Sky Sports' Sunday coverage overall, with a particularly strong showing from the under-35 demographic. These impressive numbers are a feather in the cap for the PGA Tour, who are set to leverage this success as they negotiate a lucrative new deal for their broadcast rights.

Under the current agreement, Sky Sports broadcasts at least 36 PGA Tour events annually. And this includes the Ryder Cup, DP World Tour, and all major championships for both men and women.

Aberg wins hearts

The evolution of sport can sometimes create a void between athletes and fans. With sports stars earning more than ever before, their elevated status can often make fans feel disconnected, despite playing a crucial role in the sporting economy.

Enter Ludvig Aberg, one of the fastest-rising talents on the PGA Tour - and seemingly one of golf's good guys. The surging Swede has finished in the top 10 of both his Masters involvements and placed seventh on Sunday, but he still finds time for his fans.

"Ludvig Aberg takes a photo or signs an autograph for every fan he sees," read a post by fan account PGA Dice, accompanied by images and videos of Aberg posing for photos with numerous fans. "This is Aberg inbetween hole 10 and 11 during his practice round at The RBC Heritage. He stopped for every single person before moving on to [the 11th] tee. My sister and girlfriend are now in love with the king lol."

It seems Aberg isn't just winning games, but also hearts. After securing his spot on the victorious 2023 Ryder Cup team, the charmer is making all the right moves to retain his place in this year's competition at Bethpage.

PGA winner apologises

Michael Kim is known for his active social media presence and efforts to connect with fans as one of the PGA Tour's more approachable figures. The Seoul-born, San Diego-raised golfer frequents the podcast scene and strives to keep his followers entertained, whether he's on the green or not.

It was a touching moment when the 31-year-old expressed regret for not being able to distribute tickets to Augusta National. Despite this, after making the cut in Georgia for the first time and tying for 27th on Sunday, he quickly sought to make amends.

"I'm sorry I couldn't give away Masters tix (friends and family gets priority)," he posted on X before extending another generous offer to his fans. "But I'll give them away for the RBC Heritage! If you live in the area and bring kids, I'll send you some tickets! Comment below."

Kim further elaborated on the risks associated with giving away tickets, as any misbehaviour from the recipients could reflect poorly on him. No hard feelings here, Michael.

Balionis omits McIlroy mention

Following the excitement at Augusta, CBS broadcaster Amanda Balionis was front and centre with access to the Masters champion. And she had the privilege of sitting down for after what's considered by many to be the pinnacle of his career.

It comes almost a year since rumours linked McIlroy and Balionis during the brief period when McIlroy and his wife, Erica Stoll, were reportedly considering a split, only to reconcile later. Eagle-eyed fans noticed Balionis didn't feature McIlroy in her social media summary from a hectic week at Augusta. The new green jacket-owner is nowhere to be seen across her 14-photo collection; instead it showcases behind-the-scenes moments with her friends and fellow journalists.

The post was accompanied by a heartfelt message that read: "2025 has been all about gratitude and last week was no exception. So grateful for these experiences, the people I get to learn from and work with and for those who somehow make the best job in the world even better. Until next year Augusta!"