He is currently leading the scoreboard at Augusta. Yes, we are talking about the current No. 1 on the OWGR, Scottie Scheffler, who is just a day’s play away from possibly clinching his second Masters title. But if that happens, he will be doing so without his dear wife, Meredith, by his side, all thanks to her giving birth to their first baby. Meanwhile, on the other hand, playing the final day at Augusta might also hold him back from being by his wife’s side for the delivery.
Interestingly, much to everyone’s surprise, the American had earlier disclosed that they were expecting back, all the while hinting the due date to be April. Now, case in point: It appears Scheffler might be forced to get delayed owing to the tournament’s rules of not being able to keep an electronic device such as a cell phone in hand.
Is Scottie Scheffler in danger of missing his wife’s delivery?
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Among the number of things prohibited on the course, as per the rules, “Cell phones, beepers, and other electronic devices are strictly prohibited on the grounds at all times.” Although fitness trackers and electronic watches are allowed on the course, they are prohibited from being used to call, mail, or message someone else. But, does it hold the same for players like Scheffler and their instructors?
Well, it seems Scottie Scheffler will not be actually able to call his wife to check up on her, lest he be subject to removal from the grounds. Surprisingly, even golfers are not immune to the rules. Fascinatingly, during the 2011 Masters, professionals Ian Poulter and Graeme McDowell were reprimanded owing to their recording videos and photos on the greens and sharing them online.
Moreover, back in 2021, a player’s coach was caught recording his client during the opening round and, consequently, was asked to leave the grounds. Apparently, coaches are only allowed to do so under strict regulations, “which pertains largely to the capture or filming of swing work during practice sessions on long- or short-game ranges.”
Then, it truly makes one wonder what Scheffler should do to get in touch with his wife, who is expecting to deliver their baby. Fortunately, all hope is not lost since there are various payphones present on the grounds to get in touch with his loved one.
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A payphone remedy for Scheffler’s no-contact dilemma
While the iconic Augusta doesn’t allow usage of cell phones at the Masters, patrons and players are allowed to use a payphone to contact others. What’s more, they are provided free of charge as a complimentary service, where one just has to pick up the phone, dial one, followed by the number to be called.
While the couple had earlier revealed the due date to be in April, sources say she is due in three weeks by the end of the month. However, the golfer is ever ready to withdraw from the tournament if his wife goes into labor early. Anyhow, he will surely be hoping to commemorate the birth of his baby with a victory at the majors.
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With figures of 66-72-71 at 7-under par, the golfer is currently at the top of the leaderboard and close to raking in another victory in 2024. If he becomes successful, it would be a double win for Scheffler, who will become a father as well as a two-time major champ in April. It will truly be a month of joy for the Scheffler family.