Tom Brady weighed in on PGA Tour star Scottie Scheffler’s recent comments prioritizing faith and family over golf, sparking a debate about balancing career success with home life. The exchange occurred just days before Scheffler captured the Open Championship title.
In an interview before the tournament, Scheffler stated he would quit professional golf if it ever came between his marriage or his role as a father. He emphasized that winning tournaments “is not a fulfilling life” compared to being a good husband and dad. His remarks went viral, with many praising his willingness to put family above career.
Brady responded in his newsletter, questioning whether the two priorities are mutually exclusive. He wrote:
“As part of his answer at Media Day, for example, Scottie said he’d rather be a better father and husband than a good golfer. And my question is: Why are those mutually exclusive? Sure, they’re different blocks on the pyramid, but they’re part of the same pyramid. They’re connected!
“For instance, I think part of being a great father is being a great example of doing what it takes to take care of your family. I chose to do it by playing football. My dedication to the sport, the hours of practice, the moments when I was laser focused — those were times when I believe I was doing the best possible thing for my family and my kids, by prioritizing my profession and teaching, by example, what it takes to be really good at your job, what it takes to follow through on commitments, what it takes to be a great teammate; and showing them, also by example, that work is a big part of all of our lives.”
Scheffler’s performance at the Open seemed to reinforce his point. After making his family and faith the priority, he went on to win the championship, saying the mindset gave him peace on the course.
The conversation drew mixed reactions. Many applauded Scheffler’s family-first commitment, especially in a culture often driven by career ambition. Sports commentator Jason Whitlock criticized Brady’s take, calling it “elite idiocy” and arguing that Brady’s own personal life made him the wrong messenger to question Scheffler’s values. Online reaction leaned heavily toward Scheffler, celebrating his decision to ground his career in faith and family.
Both men’s perspectives highlight an ongoing debate in sports and culture: whether elite performance and strong family life can thrive together or require difficult choices.
