PGA Championship: Will Masters winner Scottie Scheffler play in 2024’s second major?

With Scottie Scheffler’s dominant performance in the golfing world, speculation mounts as the impending birth of his first child threatens his participation in the upcoming PGA Championship. Scheffler, whose recent victories include his second Masters Tournament win, has maintained a formidable presence atop the World Golf Rankings for 51 consecutive weeks. However, his pending fatherhood casts uncertainty over his upcoming tournament schedule.

Timeline of Scheffler’s Wife’s Pregnancy
Awareness of Scheffler’s potential absence due to his wife Meredith’s pregnancy arose during the 2024 Masters. Initially expected in late April, the birth has yet to occur, leading to questions about the couple’s timeline. As weeks pass beyond the anticipated due date, speculation intensifies regarding Scheffler’s availability for future tournaments.

Scheffler’s 2024 Tournament Appearances
Despite his impending fatherhood, Scheffler has maintained an impressive tournament record in 2024. With ten appearances under his belt, his recent performance has been particularly noteworthy, securing four victories and a second-place finish in his last five outings. Notable triumphs include wins at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, the Players Championship, the RBC Heritage Classic, and the prestigious 2024 Masters.

Potential Impact on PGA Championship
As the PGA Championship looms just two weeks away, uncertainty surrounds Scheffler’s participation. His absence from the upcoming Wells Fargo Championship underscores the possibility of him missing the second major of the year. Despite rumors of his potential withdrawal, Scheffler’s recent practice rounds with former NFL quarterback Tony Romo suggest that he remains committed to maintaining his game amid personal milestones.

Odds of Scheffler’s Victory
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his participation, sportsbooks continue to favor Scheffler for victory in the PGA Championship. BetMGM lists him as the favorite with +350 odds, surpassing contenders such as Rory McIlroy and Brooks Koepka. However, his potential absence injects an element of unpredictability into the tournament’s outcome.

Implications for the 2024 PGA Championship
As Round 1 of the PGA Championship approaches on May 16, golf enthusiasts await further updates on Scheffler’s status. His potential absence not only alters the tournament’s competitive landscape but also underscores the delicate balance between professional commitments and personal milestones. Whether Scheffler ultimately competes or prioritizes the arrival of his first child, his influence on the golfing world remains palpable, shaping narratives both on and off the course.