Scheffler faces fatherhood as big meet looms

>> LOS ANGELES: Top-ranked Scottie Scheffler has been golf’s hottest sensation over the past two months, but he’s about to face a new challenge that will test him in unprecedented ways — fatherhood.

The 27-year-old American, who won his second Masters crown in three seasons last month at Augusta National, has been off for three weeks as he and his wife, Meredith, await the birth of their first child.

“Hopefully I’ll be a good dad. I’m going to do my best,” Scheffler said last month. “It’s an exciting time for Meredith and me. It’s an exciting time for the rest of our family. We’re looking forward to this next journey in our life together.”

Scheffler has until Tuesday afternoon to decide whether or not he will play at next week’s 106th PGA Championship at Valhalla in Louisville, Kentucky.

His impressive early season run has included wins at Bay Hill and The Players Championship in March, a runner-up effort after losing a Houston Open play-off, then wins last month at the Masters and Heritage tournaments.

Scheffler became the first player since 1985 to win the Masters and at the Heritage the following week.

After winning the Masters for a second time, Scheffler said he does not plan on fatherhood dimming his competitive desires.

“Will definitely enjoy the birth of my first child. But with that being said, I still love competing,” said Scheffler. “My priorities will change here very soon. My son or daughter will now be the main priority, along with my wife, so golf will now be probably fourth in line.

“But I still love competing. I don’t plan on taking my eye off the ball anytime soon, that’s for sure.”