Scheffler Makes 3M Open Debut at 30 as PGA Tour No. 1 Eyes Playoff Tuneup

Q: Will Scheffler's surprise 3M Open entry fix his putting woes or highlight them just before the FedExCup Playoffs?

Scheffler’s 3M Open entry is more likely to mask his putting issues than definitively fix them, though it also gives him a low-risk chance to build confidence before the FedExCup Playoffs. The evidence cuts both ways. At The Open, Scheffler finished tied for fourth while leading the field in strokes gained tee-to-green and ranking second in approach, but he was near the bottom in putting. That is the clearest sign that the putter remains the weak link in an otherwise dominant game. If he putts poorly again this week on a scorable course and against a weaker field, it would sharpen concerns just before the postseason. But TPC Twin Cities may reduce the damage. The course is known for large bentgrass greens, plenty of birdie chances and an emphasis on precise ball-striking, which strongly suits Scheffler. He is the world No. 1, the FedExCup leader and the clear betting favorite largely because his tee-to-green game remains the best on tour. On a layout where winning scores often push beyond 20-under, average putting could be enough for him to contend or win. His own explanation also matters: he said he did not want three weeks off before the playoffs. That suggests this is more about staying sharp than searching for a technical overhaul. So this week is best viewed as a tune-up, not a cure. If Scheffler putts merely competently, his entry will look smart and timely. If he struggles on the greens again, the spotlight on that flaw will only intensify heading into the playoffs.

Q: Is Scheffler's 3M Open debut a strategic masterstroke for the playoffs, or a sign of frustration after a major-less season?

Scheffler’s 3M Open debut looks much more like a strategic playoff tune-up than a sign of frustration. His own explanation points that way: after finishing T-4 at The Open, Scheffler said he did not want three weeks off before the postseason. That matters because the 3M Open is one of the last regular-season events before the FedExCup Playoffs, and competitive reps are often more valuable than practice alone. Since he already leads the FedExCup, this is less about scrambling for points than staying sharp. The course and field also make the decision logical. TPC Twin Cities is a scorable layout that rewards elite tee-to-green play, which remains Scheffler’s biggest strength. At The Open, he led the field in strokes gained tee-to-green and ranked second in approach, but was only 60th in putting. A birdie-heavy event on large bentgrass greens gives him a lower-pressure setting to convert strong ball-striking into momentum before the playoffs. That does not mean frustration is absent. For a world No. 1 with only one win this season and no major, 2026 has been oddly light on trophies despite remarkable consistency, including 10 top-fives and no finish worse than top 25 in nine starts. His putting has clearly cost him chances. But the evidence suggests he is responding to that with planning, not pressing. So this is best read as a calculated move: a chance to sharpen his game, chase a timely win, and enter the playoffs with rhythm rather than rust.

3 articles · Updated · 1027wbow.com · Jul 22

Scottie Scheffler arrived at TPC Twin Cities for his first 3M Open, saying he added the event because he did not want time off with the PGA Tour playoffs starting next month.
The world No. 1 comes in off a T4 finish at The Open and is still chasing his first victory since winning The American Express in January.
Kevin O’Connell joined Scheffler in Wednesday’s pro-am, prompting nearly as many questions about the Vikings coach as about the tournament itself.
TPC Twin Cities will reward accuracy more than power, Scheffler said, citing long par 4s, water hazards and thick rough that make fairways critical.
Scheffler said he had heard good things about the 3M Open before coming to Minnesota for what he believes is his first visit to the state.