Scottie Scheffler’s most chaotic golfing week concluded with a calm par on the final hole, as the world number one exchanged high-fives with the spectators lining the walkway to the score recorder’s booth. Despite exiting the US PGA Championship at Valhalla in Louisville, Kentucky, earlier than usual, Scheffler’s late rally – five birdies on the back nine – secured him a place in the top-10 with a 13-under-par total of 271, finishing on a high note with a 65.
While Scheffler, who won the US Masters title last month, didn’t manage to clinch the Wanamaker Trophy this season, his brief return to Louisville isn’t over just yet. He’s likely to face legal proceedings in relation to felony and misdemeanour accusations stemming from his attempt to manoeuvre around a police barricade at the club.
Looking forward, Scheffler is uncertain about what the immediate future holds for him. His intention, however, is to participate in the Charles Schwab Challenge in Fort Worth, Texas, this week, following his return to Dallas.
In what Scheffler describes as a ‘hectic’ week, on the heels of the birth of his son, Bennett, the golf pro turned up in Louisville following a successful streak of four victories and a second place finish in five preceding tournaments. However, an off-field complication involving the police and subsequent arrest introduced a new layer of drama that seemingly had a toll on his performance.
Known for his ability to compartmentalise personal issues throughout his career, Scheffler admitted that this skill was tested this week. Despite his exhaustion, he remained proud of his effort on the course and thankful for the extensive support he received from the audience, fellow golfers, caddies, and others present.
Scheffler refuses to attribute his poor performance on Saturday to Friday’s incident, instead indicating that he simply had an off day on the course. Regardless, he expresses satisfaction with his ability to recover the following day.
By the time he participates in the next Major – the US Open held in Pinehurst, North Carolina, Scheffler is expected to acquire a deeper understanding of the potential legal proceedings he might face.
This is post his highly-publicised arrest, which ensures that no one will refer to the world’s top golfer as dull and insipid ever again. His lawyer adds that Scheffler is prepared to face a trial regarding an assault charge.
Simultaneously, Rory McIlroy closed out his final 67 round, which contained an impressive seven birdies but was also marred by two balls landing in the water on his way back. These hiccups were unavoidable, occurring in the 13th and 15th rounds, yet he still managed to turn in a respectable 12-under-par 272 in total, clinching a top-15 finish.
Reflecting on his recent performance, McIlroy stated, “I’ve been playing a considerable amount of golf recently, having participated in my sixth tournament in seven weeks. I’m taking a week’s break before taking part in another four in succession. I’m feeling confident about my gameplay.”
McIlroy also mentioned his recent triumph in New Orleans as a turning point contributing to his improved performance. He capped off last week’s victory in Charlotte at the Wells Fargo tournament with enthusiasm. With a week off, he is now looking to reset and pick up where he left off.