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World No. 1 golfer Scottie Scheffler has withdrawn from the 2026 U.S. Open, set to begin June 18 at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club, citing a lingering wrist injury. The announcement, made Thursday morning, sent shockwaves through the golf world as Scheffler was the tournament's defending champion and heavy favorite.

The 29-year-old Texan aggravated the injury during last week's PGA Championship, where he finished tied for 12th. His team confirmed he underwent an MRI this week, revealing tendon inflammation that requires 4-6 weeks of rest. "This decision crushes me," Scheffler said in a statement. "The U.S. Open means everything, but my doctors were clear."

The withdrawal impacts betting markets, with DraftKings immediately shifting odds to favor Rory McIlroy (+750) and Jon Rahm (+800). Tournament organizers now face the challenge of filling Scheffler's marquee Thursday-Friday grouping, typically reserved for top contenders. ESPN analysts estimate the absence could cost NBC 15-20% of early-round viewership.

Scheffler's injury comes during a historic season where he'd already won The Masters and three other PGA Tour events. His 72-hole scoring average (68.1) was the lowest since Tiger Woods in 2000. The USGA confirmed they'll reserve his 2027 exemption spot if he doesn't play a single round this year.

Golf fans flooded social media with disappointment, while several players expressed support. Justin Thomas tweeted: "Hate this for Scottie - he's been playing golf from another planet." Physical therapists note wrist injuries are particularly debilitating for golfers, often requiring months of careful rehab to restore full swing mechanics.

This marks the first time since 2014 that the defending U.S. Open champion won't compete. Scheffler plans to begin rehab immediately at his Dallas home facility, with eyes on returning for The Open Championship at Royal Liverpool in July.