Scottie Scheffler’s Steady Approach Takes Him into Contention at U.S. Open

Scottie Scheffler made a remarkable recovery during the U.S. Open on Friday, turning a challenging start into a competitive finish at Shinnecock Hills. Initially facing a 2-over start, Scheffler’s round showcased his signature calm and determination.

Scheffler’s score of 2-under 68 placed him at even par, tying for 11th place and putting him just seven strokes behind leading golfer Wyndham Clark. With two rounds left to play, a win on Sunday would grant Scheffler, who turns 30 then, a career Grand Slam.

Breaking his streak of 10 rounds without setting a par, Scheffler improved significantly from last year’s seventh-place finish at Oakmont, where he was 4 over. His focus and strategy showed gains, particularly after a pivotal conversation with coach Randy Smith, which appeared to relax and refocus him.

“Doesn’t really matter to me. I just play,” Scheffler commented when asked about course settings for the weekend.

Throughout the second round, Scheffler recorded three birdies and one bogey, a significant improvement over Thursday’s four birdies, four bogeys, and a double bogey. His methodical style was evident in Friday’s play, reflecting his earlier successes in major championships like the Masters and the PGA Championship.

Scheffler demonstrated precision by hitting 12 of 14 fairways and reaching 15 greens in regulation. This contrasted Thursday’s performance, where he hit 12 fairways but only 9 greens in regulation.

Despite a solid performance, Scheffler’s putts occasionally frustrated him, with near misses on No. 2 and No. 7. He wished for additional birdies but remained positive about his overall shots.

“I wish I could have made a few more birdies coming in, but I did a lot of good stuff out there,” Scheffler remarked.

A bogey on No. 13 followed a mistimed approach and a missed 10-foot par putt. Yet, Scheffler managed a sand save on the par-3 17th and avoided further troubles.

Reflecting on his experience, Scheffler mentioned the tough conditions of the previous day but expressed satisfaction in maintaining his position.

“Yesterday was a day in which you could kind of shoot yourself out of the tournament. The conditions were really tough yesterday. Did a good job of hanging in there,” he said.

While waiting during Friday’s game, Scheffler enjoyed a peanut butter and jelly sandwich on the tee box, maintaining his composure amid distractions from spectators.

As the weekend progresses, Scheffler remains hopeful to uphold his momentum, aiming to produce consistent play over the remaining rounds of the tournament.