Tiger Woods is not here but the next best thing happens to be. Indeed, if Adam Scott can continue the stunning form of his course-record equalling 62 – the lowest shot at Bay Hill in 30 years – then he will not only be the defending champion at next month’s Masters but the world No 1 as well.
“Who needs Tiger?” were the words of one experienced caddie as Scott’s 10-under magnificence handed him an early four-shot lead.
Woods withdrew on Tuesday with his ongoing back complaint and the game waits to see if he will be fit for Augusta. The No 2 senses his opportunity, although the complexities of the ranking system mean he would not leapfrog Woods until the Monday of the Masters. No matter, Scott has waited this long.
“I’ve dreamt about being No 1 since I was kid,” Scott said. “So I’m going to be doing my best to take this opportunity because the well might dry up and I might never have this chance again.”
The Australian proved his determination by battling influenza to join Andy Bean (1981) and his countryman and great friend, Greg Norman (1984) in the Arnold Palmer Invitational’s sub-64 club. But then, Scott believed the fever and sore throat might have helped.