Scottie Scheffler teed off from the 10th hole in the second round of the PGA Championship at Valhalla Golf Course in Kentucky just hours after he was arrested. Despite the chaotic circumstances, Scheffler received a round of applause from the crowd and went on to birdie the hole. He had returned to the course less than an hour before his tee time and was tied for 12th place at the start of the round. Scheffler released a statement explaining the situation, expressing his hope to put it behind him and focus on golf. He extended his condolences to the family of the man who passed away in an earlier accident that morning, acknowledging the perspective it provided.
The incident involving Scheffler occurred when he drove past a police officer in his PGA Championship vehicle, leading to a misunderstanding with traffic flow as authorities were investigating a traffic fatality that morning. He was stopped and attached to the car by the officer, handcuffed, and taken into police custody. Scheffler was booked into the Louisville Department of Corrections and charged with second-degree assault of a police officer, criminal mischief, reckless driving, and disregarding signals from an officer directing traffic. The situation unfolded rapidly and aggressively, leaving Scheffler stunned and seeking assistance.
Prior to the tournament, Scheffler had been on a successful streak with four victories in the last five tournaments, including a second Masters title. He had been at home in Dallas awaiting the birth of his first child, which occurred on May 8. Despite the challenging circumstances leading up to the second round of the PGA Championship, Scheffler showed resilience and determination as he continued to compete. Xander Schauffele had led after the first round with an impressive 9-under par, followed by Sahith Theegala, Tony Finau, and Mark Hubbard tied for second place at 6-under par.
Scheffler’s arrest and release from police custody did not diminish his focus on the tournament, as he acknowledged the need to move on from the incident and concentrate on his performance. The support of his fellow competitors and the understanding of the crowd helped him to stay present and engaged in the competition. Despite the challenging start to the second round, Scheffler’s professionalism and commitment to the sport shone through as he continued to play. His ability to compartmentalize and put the incident behind him was a testament to his dedication to his game and his mental strength on the course.
As the tournament progressed, the leaderboard saw shifts and changes with different players vying for the top spot. Schauffele’s impressive start set the stage for an exciting competition, with other contenders close behind. The drama and intensity of the PGA Championship captured the attention of fans and spectators, as the players battled it out on the course. The tournament showcased the competitive spirit and skill of the golfers, as they navigated the challenges of Valhalla Golf Course and battled for the coveted title. Despite the unexpected turn of events involving Scheffler, the tournament continued with energy and excitement as the players showcased their talents on the grand stage of the PGA Championship.
