Scottie Scheffler Opens 2026 PGA Tour Season with Impressive 63 at The American Express

Scottie Scheffler, the world's No. 1 golfer, commenced his 2026 PGA Tour season at The American Express in La Quinta, California, with a remarkable bogey-free round of 9-under 63. This performance positioned him just one stroke behind the leaders, Min Woo Lee and Pierceson Coody, who both shot 10-under 62 on the Nicklaus Tournament Course at PGA West. The event features a total purse of $9.2 million and is notable for its three-course format, attracting a large field of 156 players.

Desert SunESPNScottie Scheffler makes honest comment about his game after opening round 63 at the American ExpressScottie Scheffler posts eye-catching score in warm-up ahead of The American Express

Scheffler's round included nine birdies and nine pars, showcasing his ability to navigate the course effectively despite hitting only five of 14 fairways. He demonstrated resilience, particularly on the 17th hole, where he managed to chip in for birdie after being blocked by trees. "Even the fairways I was missing, I was missing on the correct side," Scheffler noted, reflecting on his strategy to maintain scoring opportunities throughout the round.

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The American Express event has drawn a strong field, with many players posting low scores. Jason Day also impressed with a 63 on the more challenging Stadium Course, which averaged nearly four shots harder than the Nicklaus course. The ideal weather conditions in Palm Springs contributed to the low scoring, with players benefiting from minimal wind and well-maintained greens.

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Scheffler expressed satisfaction with his performance, stating, "I was really sharp on the front nine, holed some nice putts, hit some good iron shots." He acknowledged the mental challenge of competing in a tournament where scores are expected to be exceptionally low, emphasizing the importance of maintaining position and creating opportunities for birdies.

Scottie Scheffler makes honest comment about his game after opening round 63 at the American Express

While Scheffler's performance was commendable, some analysts pointed out that his driving accuracy could improve, as he hit only five fairways. This aspect of his game may need attention as the tournament progresses, particularly in the context of competing against a strong field.

Scottie Scheffler makes honest comment about his game after opening round 63 at the American Express

As the tournament continues, Scheffler will aim to refine his driving and capitalize on his strong start. The final round will be played on the Stadium Course, where the firmness of the greens poses additional challenges. With 54 holes remaining, Scheffler is well-positioned to pursue his 20th PGA Tour victory.

Scottie Scheffler makes honest comment about his game after opening round 63 at the American Express

• “I think the hardest part about these tests where you have to shoot so low is you can only shoot so many under par in a round of golf,” — Scottie Scheffler, World No. 1 Golfer

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• “Oh, I mean, you definitely have to approach it mentally like you got to make some birdies,“ the world number one said.” — Scottie Scheffler, on the mindset required for low-scoring tournaments.

Scottie Scheffler makes honest comment about his game after opening round 63 at the American Express