It was one of the most surreal scenes in golf history. On May 17, 2024, just before the start of the second round of the PGA Championship in Louisville, Kentucky, world number one Scottie Scheffler was arrested – in front of live cameras and stunned onlookers.
PGA Championship Chaos: Scottie Scheffler in Handcuffs
The day began with tragedy. Early in the morning, a tournament worker was struck and killed by a shuttle bus while crossing the road outside Valhalla Golf Club. Police sealed off the main entrance to the course, causing heavy traffic congestion.
Scheffler, en route to the course in an official PGA Tour vehicle, approached one of the blocked entrances. In the resulting confusion, a police officer attempted to stop his car. The situation escalated rapidly: Scheffler was pulled from the vehicle, handcuffed, and temporarily taken into custody.
An ESPN reporter captured the moment live. Images of Scheffler – in training clothes, clearly shocked, and in handcuffs – spread rapidly across social media and dominated global headlines.
Here is video that I took of Scheffler being arrested: https://t.co/8UPZKvPCCf pic.twitter.com/9Tbp2tyrJh
— Jeff Darlington (@JeffDarlington) May 17, 2024
Scheffler was released the same morning and returned to the course shortly thereafter. In a brief statement, he called the incident a misunderstanding and emphasized that he never intended to endanger anyone. He expressed his respect for law enforcement and declined to comment further.
“To be honest, I’m having a hard time processing it all. My adrenaline was high. I was shocked and saddened by what happened this morning,” Scheffler told ESPN after finishing his round.
Despite the dramatic events, the second round went ahead with a delay. Scheffler shot a remarkable 66 and remained in contention for the title.
Charges Dropped: No Consequences for World No. 1
Roughly two weeks later, all charges against Scheffler were dropped. During a court hearing in Jefferson County, the prosecutor requested the case be dismissed – and the judge agreed.
“Mr. Scheffler’s statement that this was a big misunderstanding is supported by the evidence,” said prosecutor Mike O’Connell, according to ESPN. The golfer’s actions did “not satisfy the elements of a criminal offense.”
One year on, Scottie Scheffler is back at the PGA Championship, this time without any off-course drama. He tees off alongside Rory McIlroy and Xander Schauffele – a true marquee group. Their first round begins Thursday at 2:22 p.m., followed by their second round on Friday at 5:47 p.m. (CET). So far, it’s all about golf.