Scottie Scheffler Withdraws From U.S. Open Due To Injury
Scottie Scheffler Withdraws From U.S. Open Due To Injury...
World No. 1 golfer Scottie Scheffler has withdrawn from the 2026 U.S. Open, dealing a major blow to the tournament just weeks before it begins. The PGA Tour confirmed his exit late Friday, citing a lingering wrist injury that worsened during practice. Scheffler's absence removes the favorite from the field at Shinnecock Hills, where he was expected to contend for his third major title.
The 29-year-old Texan aggravated the injury during last week's RBC Heritage, where he finished tied for 15th. Medical scans revealed tendon damage requiring immediate rest, his team said in a statement. "This decision wasn't made lightly," Scheffler said. "The U.S. Open means everything to me, but I can't risk long-term damage."
Scheffler's withdrawal sent shockwaves through the golf world, with the tournament losing its top draw. Ticket resale prices dropped nearly 12% on secondary markets within hours of the announcement. The USGA now faces marketing challenges for the June 18-21 event, which was banking on Scheffler's star power amid declining TV ratings.
Fans expressed disappointment across social media, with many calling it "devastating for the sport." Scheffler had won four times this season, including The Players Championship. His consistent performances made him the betting favorite at +450 odds before the withdrawal.
This marks Scheffler's first missed major since the 2020 PGA Championship. Reigning U.S. Open champion Wyndham Clark called it "a huge loss" for the competition. Tournament officials are reportedly scrambling to adjust promotional materials featuring Scheffler.
The injury raises questions about Scheffler's schedule for the remainder of the season. His team indicated he'll reevaluate in three weeks, potentially returning for the British Open in July. In the meantime, attention shifts to Rory McIlroy and Xander Schauffele as the new favorites at Shinnecock.
Scheffler's absence creates opportunity for rising stars like Ludvig Ã…berg and Sahith Theegala to make their mark. The last-minute shakeup ensures one of golf's most unpredictable majors just became even more wide open.
