Scottie Scheffler's resurgence at the 3M Open is a testament to the power of finding one's putting touch. After a disappointing performance at The Open Championship, where he struggled with his putter, Scheffler's return to form in the United States is a welcome sight for golf enthusiasts. With a 6-under 65 score, he immediately jumped into contention, showcasing his improved putting skills and a renewed sense of confidence.
What makes Scheffler's performance even more intriguing is the contrast between his recent struggles and his past achievements. The 26-year-old has been on a roll in recent seasons, with his putter being a key factor in his success. However, at Royal Birkdale Golf Club, he found himself losing strokes for the second time in the last 12 months. The question arises: what caused this sudden dip in form, and how did he manage to bounce back so quickly?
In my opinion, Scheffler's ability to adapt and find solutions to his putting woes is a sign of his maturity and resilience as a golfer. It's not just about the technical aspects of his game; it's also about his mental fortitude. When asked about his putting struggles, Scheffler attributed it to the unpredictable nature of links golf, where the ball's roll can be inconsistent. However, he quickly turned the tide by focusing on his technique and aligning his putts accurately.
The 3M Open, being a relatively new addition to the PGA TOUR calendar, provided Scheffler with a fresh start. As the tournament's biggest draw, he quickly showed why, with his birdie putts of 14 and 16 feet on the front nine, and a crucial 17-foot par save to make the turn in 2-under. The back nine was where he truly shone, with four birdies, including putts of 28, 14, and 10 feet.
What makes Scheffler's performance even more remarkable is his consistent improvement in putting. He ranks 14th in Strokes Gained: Putting this season, up from 22nd in 2025, 77th in 2024, and 162nd in 2022-23. This steady progress is a testament to his dedication and hard work on the practice green. However, despite his improved putting, Scheffler's season has not met his expectations in terms of wins.
Personally, I think Scheffler's performance at the 3M Open is a sign of things to come. With 54 holes left to play, he is squarely in the mix, and his improved putting touch could be the key to his success. As he continues to adapt and refine his game, Scheffler is poised to make a strong case for himself as one of the top golfers in the world. The question remains: can he translate his putting prowess into more victories?
In my view, Scheffler's performance at the 3M Open is a fascinating development in his career. It showcases his ability to overcome challenges and find solutions to his game. As he continues to evolve as a golfer, Scheffler is sure to leave his mark on the PGA TOUR, and I, for one, am excited to see what the future holds for this talented young player.
