‘I’m sticking to my word’ – Scottie Scheffler reaffirms vow to withdraw from The Masters despite leading field

Scottie Scheffler is the sole leader at this year’s Masters, but an outside factor could derail his bid for a second green jacket.

The world number one and 2022 Masters champion justifies his title as favorite before the tournament at Augusta National and heads into the final day at the top of the rankings.

But with his wife Meredith just weeks away from giving birth to their first child, the American has vowed to quit the major at any time if she goes into labor.

“People have asked us how our preparation for the baby is going,” Scheffler said Thursday.

“The nursery isn’t quite ready and we’ve had some issues at home over the last few weeks. I think that’s the most exciting part. I think we’re definitely underprepared to be parents.

“As far as going into labor goes, I wouldn’t say I’m very worried. We haven’t seen any of the early signs.

“But pregnancy is weird. It could happen at any time. Yes, open lines of communication and she can reach me if she needs to. I’m ready to go at any time.”

Scheffler’s position remained the same throughout the week.

And he confirmed before the final round that he would still leave the tournament if his wife went into labor.

Speaking after the third round, the leader said: “I keep my word.

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“Luckily, I will be here at the Masters for a while (in the coming years).

“I think you only have your first child once, so I’d rather be home if that has to happen.”

“I definitely have a way to get home pretty quickly.” I will be available to go home when I need to.”

He continued: “Meredith and I are both experiencing a very exciting time in our lives and we are excited to begin the new journey of parenthood together.

“It’s been fun so far and we can’t wait to get this baby out of Meredith’s belly and into the world.”

Incredibly, Scheffler isn’t the only player at this year’s Masters expecting a newborn.

Sam Burns is also expecting the birth of his first child with wife Caroline but he missed the cut so can relax slightly.

Scheffler is hoping to sneak into the final day of the tournament before her child is born after a strong performance.

He sits at seven under par as the sole Masters leader, with Collin Morikawa and Max Homa his closest rivals as he eyes a second green jacket.

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