Scheffler wins as McIlroy and Lowry finish tied 19th at the Players

Rory McIlroy nearly set a Players Championship scoring record at the TPC Sawgrass Stadium Course.

Rory McIlroy watches his tee shot during the Players Championship at Sawgrass. Picture: AP Photo/Lynne Sladky

The Players Championship hurtled toward a dramatic conclusion Sunday night without the most dramatic player of the week in contention.

Scottie Scheffler became the first player in 50 stagings to defend as Players champion, shooting a final-round 64 to overcome a five-shot deficit and ultimately dodge three consecutive birdie putts to force a playoff on the last.