Scottie Scheffler makes a comment on the crowds at the 3M Open after shooting 65 on day one - hitc.com

What the report says

HITC reported that Scottie Scheffler began the 3M Open with a six-under-par 65 on Thursday, 23 July 2026, putting him one shot behind first-round leader Emiliano Grillo. The opening round was played at TPC Twin Cities in Minnesota, where Scheffler recorded six birdies and no bogeys, according to the report.

The article said the world No. 1 and 20-time PGA Tour winner added the tournament to his schedule to avoid a three-week gap between The Open Championship and the FedEx Cup playoffs. HITC framed the strong start as a positive response in what it described as a difficult 2026 PGA Tour season for Scheffler, who was seeking a second win of the year.

After the round, Scheffler was asked about the gallery support despite an early tee time. He said the atmosphere was enjoyable and noted that the backing for his whole group was strong. When asked whether larger crowds push him to perform better, Scheffler said he would not call it motivation, but that playing in front of a crowd is more enjoyable than competing with little support.

The result matters because Scheffler’s opening 65 placed him immediately in contention at a late-season PGA Tour event ahead of the FedEx Cup playoffs. While one round does not determine the outcome, HITC noted that maintaining that level of play through the week would give him a strong chance to challenge for the title.