World No. 1 Golfer Scottie Scheffler Arrested Outside Valhalla Golf Club

World No. 1 golfer Scottie Scheffler made headlines early Friday morning when he was arrested following an incident with a police officer outside Valhalla Golf Club, the site of the PGA Championship. Despite not being involved in a separate traffic incident outside Valhalla that resulted in a pedestrian fatality, Scheffler found himself facing charges of second-degree assault of a police officer, criminal mischief, reckless driving, and disregarding signals from officers directing traffic.

The incident, first reported by ESPN’s Jeff Darlington, detailed how Scheffler was detained by police in handcuffs after a misunderstanding with traffic flow led to a confrontation with the officer. According to reports, Scheffler drove past the officer and was told to stop, but continued for about 10 to 20 yards before complying. He maintained that he did not realize the individual directing him to stop was a police officer.

Scheffler, released from custody at 8:40 a.m. ET, returned to Valhalla shortly after and teed off for the tournament. He later posted a message on his Instagram story expressing regret for the incident and offering condolences to the family of the pedestrian who lost their life in the earlier accident.

Despite the distraction, Scheffler managed to focus on his game and birdied his opening hole, putting him at 5-under for the tournament. His attorney, Steve Romines, defended his actions, suggesting that Scheffler was simply following instructions and was unaware of the changed traffic patterns due to the tragic accident.

The incident caused an 80-minute delay in the start of the PGA Championship’s second round, as players and officials grappled with the aftermath of the fatal accident. The PGA extended condolences to the family of the victim and expressed their sadness over the tragic event.

Scheffler is set to appear in court next Tuesday to address the charges against him. Despite the off-course drama, he remains focused on his performance at the tournament and aims to put the incident behind him as he competes for the title.