Schauffele philosophical after play-off defeat

Xander Schauffele is confident he will get back to winning ways soon after his play-off loss in the WGC-HSBC Champions in Shanghai. The American came close to defending the trophy despite suffering from flu-like symptoms during the final round, but ultimately lost out to Rory McIlroy in a play-off. McIlroy is currently ranked as the world number two but Schauffele believes when the Northern Irishman is on form he is the world’s best. “When he’s on, I’d say he’s arguably the best player in the world,” said Schauffele, as reported by Reuters. “He made me play better. I know what I need to do to become a better player.” World number 10 Schauffele, who has four wins on the PGA Tour, remains upbeat despite his play-off defeat and is confident he isn’t too far away from adding to his trophy cabinet. He added: “My time will come. I’m looking forward to getting healthy, not coughing, sleeping, more important things than trying to win a golf tournament.”