Scottie Scheffler collapses in a bad way

Scottie Scheffler must have been eager with anticipation seeing the weather forecast for the final day of The Open. After the harsh conditions at Royal Troon on Saturday, the prediction of significantly calmer winds on Sunday suggested opportunities for birdies on the front nine, followed by a test of endurance. Both Scheffler and his Ryder Cup teammate, Justin Thomas, were within striking distance of the leaders.

At 1:34 PM, Justin Thomas approached the first tee box full of expectation and hope. He knew that a round in the 60s could put him in contention for the claret jug. However, just two minutes later, Thomas was reaching into his bag for another golf ball after hitting one of the wildest tee shots of the year, sending it so far right it nearly ended up on the beach. The shot was so errant that it escaped the shot tracker’s range, leading to a devastating triple bogey on the first hole, effectively ending his challenge right from the start.

Scheffler’s fortunes began on a brighter note. Consecutive birdies on the 7th and 8th holes brought the world number one closer to the leaders. However, his hopes of claiming a third major title were dashed at the 9th hole. After finding the fairway with his tee shot, Scheffler’s approach shot came up just short of the green. From 15 yards out, it took him four more shots to hole out, including a three-putt from just over six feet, resulting in a double bogey.

The reigning Masters Champion’s expression revealed his frustration. Now, Scheffler will have to wait eight months for another chance at a major championship, where he will attempt to defend his green jacket at Augusta.