Tom Kim and Scottie Scheffler are two of the four players within four shots of the lead. Unless a mishap derails them both, it’s likely that, like last year, there might be a playoff for both silver and bronze. If both Kim and Scheffler shoot the same number, the duo will head to the playoffs. But there is only one medal. That for Meredith Scudder, spells an interesting problem. 

She is Scheffler’s wife but also shares a hearty bond with Tom Kim. More so, because just a few months ago, she found herself in a tricky spot like this. Kim and Scottie Scheffler first locked horns at the Travelers. In the first hole of a sudden-death playoff, Scheffler nailed a two-footer to edge past Kim; an errant tee shot destroyed his chances.

Kim went on to meet Scheffler’s family. Meredith, standing with her 6-week-old son, Bennett, hugged the South Korean International. Meredith joked that it was hard to know who to cheer for. “Tom, I’m proud of you. I’m so proud of you,” she greeted Kim. 

In fact, she was trying to get Bennett to say, “I love Uncle Tom.” In fact, it’s not just Meredith; Kim shares a good relationship with the entire Scottie Scheffler family. It’s like a second home for the South Korean. 

Tom Kim and Scheffler family enjoy a special bond

Kim, after chatting with Meredith, went over to the side to talk to Scheffler’s parents as well. His mother hugged him and then patted him on the shoulder. “You are playing so good, Tom. So good.” Scheffler’s father, Scott, came forward to greet him as well. Kim congratulated the elder Scheffler on his son’s victory. Scott returned the compliment, “No, congratulations. You did great. Great job.”

Notably, in May, the Scheffler family was moving with the spectators at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson. Their World no. 1 son was absent from TPC Craig Ranch as he prioritized staying with Meredith then. Instead, Scheffler’s parents were tagging Tom Kim in Texas. 

Their friendship started at Hoylake last year. Tom Kim asked Scottie Scheffler for a practice round at the Open Championship, to which readily agreed. “I’ve asked him a million questions and he’s given me a million answers,” Kim later recalled. They also share the same birthday, June 27. Last year, they celebrated together, first at a pizza outlet and then at home.

However, at the Olympics, the win might mean a little different for the two golfers. Scottie Scheffler is only hunting for the gold medal. But for Kim, a medal would mean a respite from his country’s mandatory military duty. Especially looking back at past instances very few golfers have retained their form after two years of military service.