Scottie Scheffler's Masters Journey Threatened by Pending Arrival

Scottie Scheffler is on fire at the Masters, showing that he is a force to be reckoned with. He is currently in top form and seems almost unstoppable in his quest for a second Masters crown. However, there may be a twist in his journey to victory that goes beyond Augusta National.

As the world No. 1, Scheffler has not disappointed as the pre-tournament favorite at the 88th edition of this major event. In his opening round, he impressed with a flawless performance, shooting without a single bogey. This stellar play has placed him just one stroke behind the current leader, Bryson DeChambeau.

The 27-year-old is ready to compete for another green jacket and his third title soon. However, the 2022 champion, Scheffler, is prepared to leave the tournament immediately if his wife Meredith goes into labor, even if he is in the lead.

Scheffler and Meredith, who got married in 2020, are expecting their first child in a few weeks. Despite this, Scheffler has made it clear that he will fulfill his promise to exit the tournament promptly if their baby arrives earlier than expected.

Golf - The Masters - Augusta National Golf Club, Augusta, Georgia, U.S. - April 10, 2024 Bubba Watson of the U.S. with his daughter Dakota on the 6th hole during the par 3 contest REUTERS/Mike Blake

Bubba Watson, a golfer from the U.S., was seen with his daughter Dakota on the 6th hole during the par 3 contest at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia. The event took place on April 10, 2024.

Mike Blake/Reuters

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During the par three contest on the eve of the tournament, Scheffler shared with broadcasters that his sister Sara was caddying for him in his wife’s absence at the family-focused competition. He expressed that having a child is a significant win in life.

After shooting his best ever Masters round of six-under 66 on Thursday, his fifth start in the tournament, Scheffler was asked if he was worried about the possibility of having to withdraw.

"I'm not sure if I should be more worried. I guess I don't really know," Scheffler responded with a laugh.

We've been asked about our baby preparation and honestly, I feel like we're a bit behind. The nursery isn't set up yet and we've been dealing with some issues at home. It's all part of the excitement though. I think we're definitely feeling a bit unprepared for parenthood.

When it comes to her going into labor, I'm not too worried. We haven't noticed any early signs yet, but pregnancy is unpredictable. It could happen at any moment. We keep the lines of communication open and she knows she can reach out to me if needed.

“I’m ready to go at a moment’s notice.”

The couple celebrate Scheffler's triumph at the Arnold Palmer Invitational in March.

The couple celebrate Scheffler's triumph at the Arnold Palmer Invitational in March.

Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images

After an impressive performance in 2023 where he successfully defended the PGA Tour’s Player of the Year title, Scheffler has continued to solidify his position as a top player in men’s golf this year. Following a decisive win at The Arnold Palmer Invitational recently, he made a remarkable comeback to secure back-to-back victories at The Players Championship, a feat never achieved before.

After his record-breaking win, Scheffler expressed his gratitude to his support system back home in Dallas.

"I have a wonderful wife. If I were to start displaying my trophies all around the house and acting all high and mighty, she would probably give me a reality check pretty fast," Scheffler shared with reporters.

"When it comes to winning golf tournaments, it doesn't earn me any extra points at home. So, I simply focus on giving my best effort."

Scheffler tees off for his second round at 1:48 p.m. ET (6:48 p.m. BST) alongside playing partners Xander Schauffele and Rory McIlroy.

Scheffler kisses his wife Meredith after clinching his first major title at Augusta National in 2021.

Scheffler kisses his wife Meredith after clinching his first major title at Augusta National in 2021.

David J. Phillip/AP

Burns joins Scheffler on baby watch

Scheffler isn’t the only player on baby alert – so too is friend and this week’s roommate Sam Burns.

Burns, ranked 22nd in the world, revealed that his wife Caroline is expecting their baby even sooner than expected. Despite the upcoming due date, the five-time PGA Tour winner expressed his hope that the baby would wait to arrive until after the Masters tournament.

In a conversation with reporters on Wednesday, the 27-year-old golfer shared, "It's been tough not having Caroline here with me. I miss her a lot, but I'm also enjoying the experience."

“I know she wants me to be here, so hopefully no baby this week. Hopefully stays in there until after Sunday.”

Burns is also expecting a child imminently.

Burns is also expecting a child imminently.

Jamie Squire/Getty Images

Burns struggled in his opening round, shooting three double bogeys for a disappointing eight-over 80. This score was only two shots better than the worst in the field, putting him in a tough position to make the cut and play through the weekend.

Major championships have seen the impact of impending births in the past. For instance, during the 1999 US Open, Phil Mickelson's caddie Jim Mackay carried a beeper throughout all 72 holes just in case Mickelson's wife Amy went into labor.

Mickelson came in second place, just one stroke behind Payne Stewart. Despite the disappointment, Stewart consoled Mickelson by reminding him of the joys of fatherhood on the 18th green.

The very next day, Mickelson, who had shot a 73 on Thursday, was by his wife's side as she gave birth to their first child.

Editor's P/S:

Scottie Scheffler's unwavering commitment to his family, as evident in his willingness to withdraw from the Masters should his wife go into labor, is a testament to the profound importance he places on life beyond the golf course. His understanding that family takes precedence over professional aspirations is a refreshing and inspiring perspective, particularly in a world where success is often measured solely by external achievements. Scheffler's actions serve as a reminder that true fulfillment lies in the balance between personal and professional priorities.

Furthermore, the article highlights the growing trend of players balancing their golf careers with impending fatherhood. Sam Burns' similar situation underscores the changing dynamics within the sport, where players are increasingly embracing the responsibilities and joys of family life alongside their competitive pursuits. This shift in priorities reflects a broader societal trend towards work-life integration, as individuals strive to find harmony between their professional and personal aspirations.