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Scottie Scheffler looks on during the 2026 US Open
Scottie Scheffler finds himself eight shots off the lead after his opening lap of the US open. The world’s No. 1 golfer shot +2 on Thursday at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, New York.
He was seen arguing with longtime coach Randy Scott after completing his day. Is it cause for concern?
Maybe. It certainly wasn’t the start he had hoped for. However, looking deeper into his 2026 season, it’s probably a bit early to write off the golfer.
Scottie Scheffler argument headlines US Open battle.
Trouble in paradise??? pic.twitter.com/fD1IybGDCs
— Christopher Powers (@CPowers14) June 18, 2026
Scheffler shot 72 on Thursday to finish two over par. He is eight shots behind leader Wydham Clark after an opening round of -6 (through 16 holes).
Scheffler’s front nine was a battle. He recorded two bogeys and a double to finish at +3. He cleaned things up on the back end and sank three birdies to get back within striking distance.
He is currently tied for 49th place. He showed some frustration afterwards.
Cameras caught Scheffler arguing with Randy Scott on the driving range. His grip seemed to be the topic of conversation.
The commentary crew pushed the interaction aside. There is no reason to panic yet.
“He just knows how important these fundamentals are to Scottie, and this is not unusual. They’ll go back and forth. They’ve known each other a long time, so they’ll have these conversations. It’s been pretty well documented this year that Scotty is losing shots on the right side.”
Scheffler wants to be proven right before Day 2. The argument was the byproduct of inconsistency, but can be attributed to the competitive mentality of the sport’s best player.
Recent history says there is no reason to worry.
Scottie Scheffler First round fights have been documented this season. He continued that trend on Thursday at the US Open.
Scheffler’s participated in twelve events this year. He has won once while posting six other Top 5s. In seven of his tournaments, his opening round was his worst.
That includes a 73 at the Phoenix Open, where he finished third, and a 72 at Pebble Beach, where he finished fourth.
He shone in almost every event this season from Friday to Sunday. He should feel very comfortable playing from the back.
Conditions on Thursday were difficult for every golfer in the field not named Wyndham Clark. Scheffler is just four shots behind in second place. Soil can be easily replenished.
Scheffler has proven his ability to move up the rankings quickly with strong results. He was frustrated with his opening day but is doing what he can to make adjustments.
The argument and overall performance are not a cause for concern at this point. If the battle continues Friday, that conversation could change.
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