Adam Scott suggests who he thinks is a ‘better’ driver of the golf ball – prime Tiger Woods or Rory McIlroy

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Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy are two of the greatest drivers of the golf ball in the history of the sport.

Woods’ driving was key to his success in the late 1990s and 2000s because it was simply on another level to his competition.

Of course, the overall standard is much higher today with the latest advancements but McIlroy still finds a way to be better than the rest.

Adam Scott has now compared the two legends and suggested which he would pick.

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Adam Scott compares Rory McIlroy’s driving to Tiger Woods

Scott won his first PGA Tour event at the 2003 Deutsche Bank Championship and his latest at the 2020 Genesis Invitational. His longevity is up there with the very best.

So, having played many rounds alongside both Woods and McIlroy throughout his career, who better to compare them?

Here’s what Scott had to say about their driving abilities before the Players Championship: “[McIlroy’s] just a phenomenal player.

“He’s playing at such a high level all the time and he’s been doing it a long time now at the highest level. I played with him a couple of weeks ago at Torrey Pines, he’s a remarkable striker of the golf ball.

“His driving is… I got to play with Tiger Woods in the early 2000s. Watching him drive the golf ball, I mean, it’s that level. Maybe it’s better.”

“I just hold his game in the highest respect. The way he won at Pebble Beach the other week, putting well, chipping well, he’s the full package. I think his game has evolved and in every area seems to be getting better still.”

Rory McIlroy’s driving vs PGA Tour stars this season

Rory McIlroy ranks the highest of any PGA Tour player in the 2025 season for strokes gained off-the-tee, ahead of Taylor Pendrith and Keith Mitchell.

He’s only fifth in driving distance but he’s clearly more accurate than those in the top four. Here’s how the Northern Irishman compares to some of his rivals.

McIlroy also ranks 28th and 34th on the Tour this year for strokes gained with approach shots and around the green, respectively.

It’s harsh to say that the world number two has an issue with his game but he’s 93rd in the putting category.

For him to win the Players Championship, Masters or any other of the top tournaments coming up, his ‘flatstick’ will need to heat up.