PONTE VEDRA, Fla. — It might be easier for Rory McIlroy if Scottie Scheffler were a little bit less likable, so he could manufacture at least some sort of enemy vibe.

Tournament golf, by nature, is not a mano-a-mano sport. And Scheffler is one of the most affable and admirable players on the circuit.

But McIlroy’s sights are firmly set on chasing down Scheffler, who’s had a strong grip on the world’s No. 1 ranking for the past 95 weeks. McIlroy, who’s been No. 1 before, wants to be No. 1 again.

And when you watch his actions and speak to him, you get the distinct feeling that McIlroy is sending this message: Don’t forget about me.