Scottie Scheffler: Houston Open canceled due to second child

The golf world is looking to Texas this week, but the top favorite is missing: Scottie Scheffler has canceled his start at the Houston Open at short notice. The reason for the world number one's withdrawal is a happy event in his private life.

HOUSTON - It was news that took the golf scene by surprise on Tuesday morning, but on closer inspection is absolutely consistent: Scottie Scheffler will not tee off at this year's Texas Children's Houston Open at Memorial Park. As officially announced by the PGA Tour, the Texan cites "family reasons" for his absence.

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Scottie Scheffler's priorities: family before golf tournament

There is a wonderful reason behind the last-minute cancellation: Scottie Scheffler and his wife Meredith are expecting their second child together. Several sources, including the Golf Channel, have confirmed that the birth is imminent. The two-time Masters winner is thus continuing his clear policy of putting family before sport.

Back in 2024, shortly before the birth of his first son Bennett, Scottie Scheffler made it clear that he would be prepared to leave a tournament - even the Masters - at any time should the birth begin. "The lines of communication are open," he said at the time. Now it seems the timing is once again closely linked to the tournament calendar, but this time Scottie Scheffler decided in advance to stay safe at home.

Drop in form or just a break for Scottie Scheffler?

In sporting terms, the withdrawal comes at an interesting time. Although Scottie Scheffler got off to a furious start in 2026 with a victory at The American Express, his usual dominance has been somewhat tarnished of late. His impressive streak of 18 consecutive top-10 finishes was snapped at the Genesis Invitational, and Scottie Scheffler also fell short of his own high expectations at the Players Championship, finishing tied 22nd.

His usually precise long game in particular showed unusual weaknesses recently. In the statistics for "Strokes Gained: Off the Tee", Scottie Scheffler only ranked 44th at Sawgrass. However, he was his usual relaxed self: "I'm not thinking about winning, I'm thinking about getting things right," he commented on his current form. For Scottie Scheffler, it's all about the right attitude and commitment to his shots, rather than just the ranking.

The field in Houston without Scottie Scheffler

Due to Scottie Scheffler's withdrawal, the experienced Matt Kuchar has replaced him in the field. The betting markets also reacted promptly: while Scottie Scheffler was previously the heavy favorite to win the title in his home state, defending champion Min Woo Lee is now seen as the man to beat.

Looking ahead: Scottie Scheffler and the Masters

The big question for all golf fans now is: What's next for Scottie Scheffler? Having skipped the Houston Open as a dress rehearsal, it is uncertain whether he will tee it up at the Valero Texas Open next week or whether his next appearance will be directly at Augusta National Golf Club.

Despite the minor results crisis and the lack of playing practice in Houston, Scottie Scheffler remains the top favorite for the first major of the year. His record at the Masters is simply phenomenal with two wins in six starts. Whether with a "baby boost" or after a longer tournament break - Scottie Scheffler is definitely a force to be reckoned with in the battle for the Green Jacket.