Scottie Scheffler silences Open putting demons with 65 at 3M Open

Scottie Scheffler wasted no time shaking off the rust from a disappointing Open Championship, firing a six-under par 65 in the opening round of the 3M Open on Thursday. The world number one, who struggled with his putter at Royal Troon, looked sharp from the start at TPC Twin Cities in Minnesota.

Sharp response

Scheffler’s round was a statement, featuring a flurry of birdies and a bogey-free card. While details of his exact hole-by-hole performance remain undetailed, the score itself signals a return to the form that has made him the dominant force on the PGA Tour. His putting, in particular, appeared much more settled after a week of frustration at the season’s final major.

Why it matters

The 3M Open is a key event on the PGA Tour calendar, offering valuable FedEx Cup points as the regular season winds down. For Scheffler, a strong showing here is crucial for building momentum heading into the playoffs. His recent putting woes had raised questions, but this round suggests he may have ironed out the kinks.

What it means

With three rounds still to play, Scheffler’s opening salvo puts him in prime position to contend. If he can sustain this level of play, he’ll not only silence critics but also reaffirm his status as the player to beat in the postseason. Minnesota might just be the stage for his next victory.