Scottie Scheffler reveals real reason behind surprise 3M Open appearance

Scottie Scheffler has revealed the real reason he made the surprise decision to compete in this week’s 3M Open at TPC Twin Cities for the first time in his PGA Tour career.

The World No.1 could have easily opted for a well-earned rest following a demanding two-week spell in the United Kingdom, but instead he has travelled back across the Atlantic to tee it up in Minnesota.

And Scheffler’s motivation is much simpler than many expected.

The four-time major champion admitted his decision was primarily down to scheduling, with the 30-year-old American unwilling to enter the FedEx Cup Playoffs after a three-week competitive break.

Scheffler’s appearance at the 3M Open initially raised eyebrows given the timing. 

He has just endured a physically and mentally demanding stretch overseas, beginning with a disappointing missed cut at the Genesis Scottish Open two weeks ago before producing a strong title defence at The Open last week. 

While Scheffler only played two competitive rounds at The Renaissance Club after failing to make the weekend, he still had to deal with the pressure of defending the Claret Jug at Royal Birkdale the following week.

Despite struggling badly on the greens throughout The Open, ranking close to the bottom of the field in strokes gained putting, Scheffler battled his way to a tied-fourth finish — ending just three shots behind eventual champion Ryan Fox.

The result extended a frustrating period for Scheffler, who has been searching for his second PGA Tour title of the season since his first event in January after narrowly missing out several times, none more heartbreaking than a playoff defeat to Viktor Hovland at the Travelers Championship at the end of June.

However, rather than taking time away from competition, Scheffler decided TPC Twin Cities provided the perfect opportunity to sharpen his game ahead of his bid to win a second FedEx Cup next month. 

Scheffler wanted to avoid three-week break before FedEx Cup Playoffs

Scheffler enters the 3M Open as the overwhelming favourite at 11/4, despite it being his first appearance at the tournament.

The 20-time PGA Tour winner is also the only player inside the world’s top 20 competing this week, with former Masters champion Hideki Matsuyama, defending champion Kurt Kitayama and recent Scottish Open champion Tom Kim among other notables in the field. 

But when asked why he had chosen to play after an intense U.K. schedule this month, Scheffler got straight to the point. 

He did not want a prolonged break before the FedEx Cup Playoffs begin on August 13.

“For me it was good scheduling. We had two weeks in the U.K., and three weeks off before the Playoffs didn't seem like the most ideal way to set up my schedule,” Scheffler told reporters at TPC Twin Cities on Wednesday.

He added that feedback from fellow PGA Tour players also played a role in his decision.

“This was a tournament that I've heard a lot of good things about and so far everything seems pretty true, which is nice, and so I'm excited to get the week started and play some golf.

“The people have been tremendous, the fans have been really nice to me so far and the tournament seems to do a really good job just taking care of everybody.”

Scheffler impressed by first look at TPC Twin Cities

After arriving in Minnesota, Scheffler took Monday away from golf before easing back into preparation.

The World No.1 admitted he was focused on recovering from the physical demands of his U.K. trip rather than immediately grinding through practice sessions.

He played nine holes on Tuesday before getting his first proper look at TPC Twin Cities.

“I got to see all 18 holes, so that's good,” Scheffler said.

“I took the day off Monday, took a pretty light day yesterday, just came out, hit a couple, played nine and left.”

Scheffler's early assessment of the course with his caddie Ted Scott was positive, although he warned that accuracy off the tee will be vital.

“The course seems really nice, the greens are really good,” Scheffler said.

“Rough is pretty healthy, so fairways are going to be at a premium this week.”

That observation could prove significant, particularly given Scheffler’s elite iron play and ability to control his ball flight. 

As it stands, Scheffler ranks first in strokes-gained total and strokes-gained tee to green, which is a huge reason why he is a red-hot favouriite with the bookmakers ahead of Thursday's first round. 

TPC Twin Cities is expected to reward players who consistently find the short grass and avoid difficult approach shots from the rough.

A different challenge after major championship pressure

The 3M Open represents a completely different environment compared with the pressure cooker of major championship golf.

After battling the expectations of defending the Claret Jug, Scheffler arrives in Minnesota with a considerably lighter assignment.

This week's tournament field is considerably weaker compared with the events Scheffler has contested throughout the season, giving him an opportunity to build confidence before the FedEx Cup Playoffs.

The biggest question remains his putting. 

Scheffler has been one of the best ball-strikers in the world for several years, but inconsistent performances on the greens have prevented him from converting more opportunities into victories.

His performance at Royal Birkdale highlighted that issue again. 

Despite ranking near the bottom of the field with the putter, he still finished inside the top five.

If Scheffler can find even an average putting week at TPC Twin Cities, he will be difficult to beat.

First Minnesota appearance adds another reason for Scheffler

Beyond competitive preparation, Scheffler also admitted the 3M Open offers the chance to visit somewhere completely new.

The event marks his first appearance in Minnesota, and he was unsure whether he had ever previously visited the state.

“This might be my first time in Minnesota. I'm not sure if I've ever actually been to this state before,” Scheffler said.

While the tournament was primarily a scheduling decision, Scheffler has quickly embraced the experience.

From the facilities to the hospitality, he has been impressed by his first few days at TPC Twin Cities.

“Clubhouse has been good, food's been really good,” he added.

Scheffler will begin his first-ever 3M Open campaign on Thursday morning.

He tees off from the 10th hole at 7:29am local time alongside Hideki Matsuyama and Sungjae Im.

With the FedEx Cup Playoffs fast approaching and momentum crucial, Scheffler will hope his decision to sacrifice rest for competitive preparation pays dividends.