GAINESVILLE, GAINESVILLE, GAINESVILLE, GAINESVILLE, GA Scottie Scheffler did not disappoint in his maiden round as the world No. 1 golfer.
After birdies at Nos. 8 and 9, the three-time PGA Tour winner hit the turn on Day 1 at the Masters at 2 under. He ended his round with only one bogey at No. 18, good for a 3-under 69 and a tie for fourth place among the early starters. Thanks to good ball-striking and sound decision-making, the round was reasonably stress-free.
Despite the fact that he’s just in his third Masters, Scheffler says he’s learned to be patient and resist the temptation to have too much “fun.” The par-5 15th hole was the best example of this.
“It’s a lot of fun to play,” says the player. I have to keep an eye on myself around here because, for example, today on 15, I had a chance to hit a really cool shot that looked like a lot of fun,” he remarked. “I didn’t hit the shot because it wasn’t the appropriate play.”
Instead, Scheffler opted for a layup and a 15-foot wedge shot for a two-putt par. It wasn’t especially flashy or amusing, but it was clever.
“I could have hit a high, soft-like, hook 3-wood, and the lie is set up for it,” he explained. “Fortunately, I’ve grown up a little.” I would have hit the shot 100 percent if it had been a practice round.”
