In his current state of play, it almost seems like nothing can hinder Scottie Scheffler from securing his second Masters victory – yet the world's number one player might have a rendezvous with fate that extends beyond Augusta National.
The American has justified his status as the frontrunner before the tournament at the 88th installment of this major, delivering a flawless opening round to position himself just one stroke behind the leader Bryson DeChambeau.
This places the 27-year-old in an optimal position to pursue another green jacket and secure his third title in just over a month, but Scheffler, the 2022 champion, is prepared to exit the competition “at a moment's notice” – regardless of his position on the leaderboard – if his wife Meredith goes into labor.
The high-school sweethearts, who tied the knot in 2020, aren't anticipating the arrival of their first child for a few more weeks, but Scheffler has reaffirmed his commitment to leave the tournament “on a dime” if the birth occurs sooner than anticipated.
"I believe the first child takes priority... over many aspects of my life," Scheffler shared with broadcasters during the par three contest preceding the tournament, where his sister Sara served as his caddie in his wife's absence at the family-oriented event.
Reflecting on Thursday after his impressive first round of six-under 66 – his finest Masters round in his fifth appearance – Scheffler was questioned about his concerns regarding the possibility of needing to exit the tournament.
"Perhaps I should be more apprehensive. To be honest, I'm not entirely sure," Scheffler responded with a laugh.
"People have been asking us about our readiness for the baby. I feel like we're a bit unprepared. The nursery isn't quite set up, and we've encountered some issues at home in recent weeks. But that's part of the excitement. I think we're definitely not fully prepared to become parents.
"As for her going into labor, I wouldn't say I'm overly worried. We haven't noticed any early signs. But pregnancy is unpredictable. It can happen at any moment. So, we keep the lines of communication open, and she can reach me if necessary.
"I'm poised to leave at a moment's notice."
Following an exceptional 2023 season where he secured the PGA Tour's Player of the Year accolade once again, Scheffler has further solidified his position as the dominant figure in men's golf this year. Just seven days after a commanding triumph at The Arnold Palmer Invitational last month, he executed a remarkable late surge to become the inaugural player to successfully defend The Players Championship.
In the aftermath of his historic triumph, Scheffler reserved special commendation for his support network back home in Dallas.
"I'm fortunate to have a wonderful wife, and if I were to start displaying my trophies all around the house and strutting around like a big shot, I reckon she'd give me a good clip round the ear and remind me to stay grounded," Scheffler shared with reporters.
"Winning golf tournaments doesn't earn me any extra brownie points at home, so I simply strive to do my best."
Scheffler is scheduled to begin his second round at 1:48 p.m. ET (6:48 p.m. BST), alongside his playing partners Xander Schauffele and Rory McIlroy.
Burns joins Scheffler on baby watch
Scheffler isn't the lone player on baby watch – his pal and this week's roommate, Sam Burns, is also on standby.
Ranked 22nd globally, Burns' wife Caroline is due even sooner, with the five-time PGA Tour victor confessing before his third Masters appearance that he's crossing his fingers for no arrival until after the coveted green jacket has been presented.
"It's been quite challenging. I miss Caroline, I really wish she could be here, but it's been enjoyable as well," remarked Burns, aged 27, to reporters on Wednesday.
"I know she wants me to be here, so let's hope the baby holds off this week. Hopefully, the little one stays put until after Sunday."
It might not make a difference. Burns endured three double bogeys on his way to an initial eight-over 80 – a mere two shots above the worst score in the field – placing him in a daunting position to avoid elimination and progress to the weekend.
Impending childbirths have left their imprint on major championships previously. Phil Mickelson's caddie, Jim Mackay, carried a pager throughout all 72 holes of the 1999 US Open in case the golfer's wife, Amy, went into labor.
Mickelson finished agonizingly one stroke behind fellow American Payne Stewart, who offered solace to his rival on the 18th green by remarking, "There's nothing quite like becoming a father."
A day later, Mickelson – who carded a 73 on Thursday – stood by his wife's side as she welcomed their first child into the world.
