Scottie Scheffler posted a bogey-free 6-under 65 in the first round of the 3M Open, and TPC Twin Cities was absolutely buzzing from the moment he stepped on the course. Crowds were packed 10-deep around tees and greens early Thursday, all there to see the world’s No. 1-ranked golfer tee it up in Minnesota for the first time since Brooks Koepka played in 2019. Koepka actually missed the cut back then, shooting 1-under, so Scheffler’s start is a completely different vibe for the fans.
Scheffler’s Surprise Appearance Before the Playoffs
It was a total shocker for many golf fans to see the world’s top player choose to compete in this tournament with the PGA Tour’s FedExCup Playoffs looming. But Scheffler told reporters it was all about smart scheduling. He had two weeks in the U.K. recently, and taking three weeks off right before the playoffs just didn’t feel like the right move for his setup. He’d heard good things about the 3M Open, and so far, it’s living up to the hype. Everything looks “pretty good from [his] view,” and he was pumped to get the week going.
A Near-Perfect Round and Minnesota’s Warm Welcome
Scheffler’s game plan for the first round was spot on. He missed only four fairways and was tied for first in scrambling around the greens. Plus, he ranked second in strokes gained: putting! That’s how you shoot a bogey-free 65, folks. Before the tournament, Scheffler mentioned the course was “really nice” with “really good” greens and “pretty healthy” rough, making fairways a premium. He played a light day Tuesday and just focused on getting some rest after two longer weeks overseas. Minnesota has seriously rolled out the red carpet for him, with fans being super kind even when he politely declined a photo during a family dinner. He even got to play his pro-am round with Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell, asking him about the 2026 season and who’s lining up at quarterback this year.
Scheffler tees off for his second round today at 12:44 p.m. CT on the front nine. Expect those crowds to be even wilder, because ticket sales are already up over 25%! You know everyone wants to see if he can keep this momentum going.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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