Louisville, Kentucky – Following a tragic incident outside the Valhalla Golf Club, a group of PGA Championship players considered not playing in the second round. The players were shaken by the death of a pedestrian hit by a shuttle bus and the subsequent arrest of world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler. Will Zalatoris revealed details of the players’ 20-30 minute discussion that took place in the Valhalla locker room, expressing concerns about proceeding with the tournament under the circumstances.
The conversation among the players revolved around the idea of approaching the PGA of America to discuss the potential cancellation or delay of Friday’s play. Delays in tee times were already implemented, with the first tee times pushed back by one hour and 20 minutes to allow for investigations into the tragic event. Scheffler’s arrest further added to the somber atmosphere, as he was detained while entering the Valhalla grounds, impacting his preparation for the round.
Zalatoris highlighted the emotional toll the events had on the players, mentioning their shock and uncertainty as they grappled with the loss of life and Scheffler’s detainment. The group of players, who remained unnamed, expressed a desire for a significant delay in the tournament to allow for proper handling of the situation by authorities. Zalatoris emphasized the surreal nature of the circumstances, reflecting on the unpredictability of the world of golf in the face of such incidents.
The combination of the pedestrian fatality and Scheffler’s arrest created a challenging atmosphere for the players, impacting their focus and preparation for the championship. Despite the disruptions, the tournament continued as scheduled, with players coping with the unexpected events unfolding around them. The incidents served as a stark reminder of the fragility of normality in the world of golf, pushing players to navigate through unforeseen challenges during the competition. The resilience of the players in the face of adversity was evident as they strove to maintain their focus and composure amidst the disruptions.