Scottie Scheffler’s Unforeseen Arrest and Remarkable Recovery at the PGA Championship
The world’s top-ranked golfer, Scottie Scheffler, found himself in an unexpected situation as he sat in a jail cell, watching the news of his arrest unfold on a nearby TV. The previous morning had started in the most unusual way for the 27-year-old, who was charged with felony assault after an alleged altercation with a police officer outside the PGA Championship in Kentucky.
Despite the shock and uncertainty, Scheffler managed to regain his focus and began preparing for the second round of the tournament. His heart rate had settled, and he started his warm-up routine at Louisville’s Valhalla Golf Club. Remarkably, he was still in contention for the second consecutive major title.
The start of the second round was delayed due to a fatal crash near the course. Tournament favorite Scheffler expressed his condolences to the family of John Mills, who was identified as the pedestrian that had tragically lost his life. The incident had left Scheffler feeling quite shaken and “pretty rattled,” but he managed to compose himself before stepping up for his opening tee shot.
The officers at the jail were commended by Scheffler for their professionalism and jovial demeanor, as they made jokes while processing him. It took some time, but the two-time Masters champion was eventually calmed down and driven back to the golf course. He was greeted warmly by his parents and the crowds upon arrival.
The day did not go as planned for world No. 3 Xander Schauffele, who managed a 68 after his record-breaking opening round of 62. He maintained a narrow lead over Collin Morikawa, who shot a 65 and was just one stroke behind the 12-under par benchmark. Morikawa’s impressive run of five consecutive birdies propelled him into contention, leaving him in second place.
Scheffler’s group included Sahith Theegala, who was a shot behind Morikawa with one hole left of his second round. The American was joined by compatriots Mark Hubbard and Bryson DeChambeau, as well as Belgium’s Thomas Detry, all tied for fourth place.
Unfortunately, several high-profile names missed the cut, including Tiger Woods, who shot a disappointing 77 and was well short of the projected one-playoff cut line. Woods had looked on course to build on his record-breaking 24th consecutive weekend appearance at the Masters, but a horrendous start left him with too much ground to make up.
Play is set to resume on Saturday morning at 7:15 a.m. ET (12:15 BST).
