Scottie Scheffler issues statement following PGA Championship arrest

Scottie Scheffler has broken his silence following his arrest ahead of Round 2 of the PGA Championship.

The world No.1 was taken away in handcuffs this morning following an unrelated fatal car accident outside Valhalla Golf Club.

He was subsequently charged with second degree assault of a police officer, third degree criminal mischief, reckless driving, and disregarding traffic signals from an officer directing traffic.

His booking sheet and mugshot have subsequently been widely shared online.

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Nonetheless, he got his delayed second round under way at 3.08pm (UK) in his bid to win a fifth title in his last six starts but not before sharing this statement on his social media channels.

“This morning, I was proceeding as directed by police officers,” he wrote. “It was a very chaotic situation, understandably so considering the tragic accident that had occurred earlier, and there was a big misunderstanding of what I thought I was being asked to do.

“I never intended to disregard any of the instructions. I’m hopeful to put this to the side and focus on golf today.”

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He added: “Of course, all of us involved in the tournament express our deepest sympathies to the family of the man who passed away in the earlier accident this morning.

“It truly puts everything in perspective.”

Scheffler’s arraignment has been set for Tuesday morning at 9am local time.

The PGA of America has provided an update on the fatal accident that occurred outside Valhalla Golf Club this morning.

In a statement, the organisation said: “This morning we were devastated to learn that a worker with one of our vendors was tragically struck and killed by a shuttle bus outside Valhalla Golf Club.

“This is heartbreaking to all of us involved with the PGA Championship. We extend our sincere condolences to their family and loved ones.”

The governing body later released a follow up which read: “Our primary concern today remains with the family of John Mills, who lost his life in a tragic accident early this morning while reporting to work.

“As it relates to the incident involving Scottie Scheffler, we are fully cooperating as local authorities review what took place. While the legal process plays out, questions should to be directed to Scheffler’s attorney or local authorities.”

Michael McEwan is the Deputy Editor of bunkered and has been part of the team since 2004. In that time, he has interviewed almost every major figure within the sport, from Jack Nicklaus, to Rory McIlroy, to Donald Trump. The host of the multi award-winning bunkered Podcast and a member of Balfron Golfing Society, Michael is the author of three books and is the 2023 PPA Scotland 'Writer of the Year' and 'Columnist of the Year'. Dislikes white belts, yellow balls and iron headcovers. Likes being drawn out of the media ballot to play Augusta National.

Deputy Editor