Hilarious PGA Tour Reaction to Scottie Scheffler’s 2026 Season Opener Birdie
Golf isn’t always serious business. Sure, the players strive for excellence, pursue titles, and chase records for weeks, months, and even years. But there are moments when the sport’s lighter, more playful side shines through. One such moment unfolded recently as Scottie Scheffler began his 2026 PGA Tour season — and the reaction from a fellow professional captured just how much fun these athletes have, even amid intense competition.
World number one Scottie Scheffler, already one of golf’s most dominant stars, got his 2026 campaign off to a flying start with a birdie on his very first hole of the season. Scheffler’s play has been the subject of widespread attention — and rightfully so. The 29-year-old American finished the opening round of The American Express tournament with a bogey-free 9-under-63, one of the lowest rounds of his career and a statement about his form going into a new year of competition.
While many fans and observers were impressed by Scheffler’s performance, it was the reaction of one-time PGA Tour winner Michael Kim that stood out for its humor. Kim, who has carved out his own respectable career, made a lighthearted and comical response to Scheffler’s quick birdie, showing that even elite athletes can enjoy a laugh at the start of a long season.
Scottie Scheffler’s Strong Start
Before diving into the humorous reaction, it’s worth appreciating Scheffler’s performance itself. Opening a season with a birdie is noteworthy for any professional, but doing so as Scheffler did — and then continuing that strong play throughout the round — set a powerful tone. At La Quinta Country Club, where The American Express is played, Scheffler birdied five of his first six holes and hit 17 of 18 greens in regulation — spectacular statistics for a first round of any season.
This strong outing came after a phenomenal previous season in which Scheffler secured six PGA Tour wins, including two major championships — the PGA Championship and The Open Championship. Those victories helped him earn his fourth consecutive PGA Tour Player of the Year honor in 2025, an achievement only matched by legends such as Tiger Woods.
The Reaction That Got Everyone Laughing
According to reports, Michael Kim’s reaction to Scheffler’s first birdie was unforgettable. Rather than merely acknowledging it as a good play, Kim responded in a way that showed both admiration and amusement, highlighting the camaraderie among tour pros. His humorous take on the moment became a talking point among fans and media alike, capturing the lighter side of professional golf.
Though the exact words were shared in playful spirit, the essence of Kim’s reaction reminded everyone that PGA Tour players are people first — and that even in competitive environments, moments of levity keep the game enjoyable. It’s precisely this blend of talent, personality, and humor that makes golf such a captivating sport to follow.
More Than Just a Laugh
Scheffler’s strong start did more than just entertain — it sent a clear message to his peers about his intentions for the season. A round like his opening-day 63 isn’t just impressive, it’s dominant. With birdies at nearly every turn and consistently excellent ball striking, Scheffler showed that he’s ready to continue his streak of excellence.
The 9-under opening round placed Scheffler close to the top of the leaderboard early, positioning him as a contender for the first title of the year. While Scheffler has yet to win The American Express tournament in his career, his history and recent form suggest that it’s only a matter of time before he hoists the trophy at this event as well.
Scheffler’s Path to Greatness
Scheffler’s dominance extends beyond just this one round or tournament. In a span of two seasons, he’s established himself among golf’s elite with multiple PGA Tour wins, impressive scoring averages, and remarkable consistency. In 2025 alone, he won six times, including two majors, and finished inside the top 25 in all 20 events he entered. That level of performance is rare and elevates him into conversations about the game’s all-time greats.
His scoring precision, mental strength, and ability to make birdies when it counts have made Scheffler a feared competitor. Unlike many players who struggle with consistency, Scheffler seems to have found a balance between aggressive scoring and steady play — an approach that allows him to soar up leaderboards while maintaining excellent control over his game.
The Human Side of Professionals
While Scheffler’s performance was undeniably elite, it’s reactions like Kim’s that humanize professional golf. The tour is filled with stories of competitiveness and rivalries, but it is also rich with genuine friendships and moments of shared humor. From playful banter on the course to teammates cheering one another on, these interactions remind fans that golf is more than statistics and trophies — it’s a community of individuals who love the game.
Kim’s reaction exemplifies this spirit perfectly. Instead of a dry acknowledgment of a good golf shot, his light-hearted response highlighted the joy and relatability that makes professional golf so engaging to watch. Fans around the world relished the moment, sharing laughs and appreciating the human side of players they usually see in intense competition.
Looking Ahead
As the 2026 PGA Tour season unfolds, all eyes will be on Scheffler to see if he can maintain this impressive form. Beginning the year with a birdie and a humorous moment shared among peers adds both competitive intrigue and personality to his narrative. Whether he goes on to secure more wins, contend in major championships, or simply continue making birdies, one thing is clear: Scheffler’s presence on tour will be a major storyline throughout the year.
Golf fans should also expect more memorable reactions, surprising moments, and the unique blend of seriousness and fun that comes with watching the world’s best players compete. This balance of competitive excellence and human connection is part of what makes golf a sport loved by millions — not just for the game itself, but for the personalities that bring it to life.