World No. 1 golfer Scottie Scheffler is set to make a highly anticipated return to the PGA TOUR in 2026, with his debut at The American Express tournament. This news comes as a relief to fans, given Scheffler's recent dominance on the tour. The tournament organizers announced Scheffler's participation on social media, confirming his commitment to the event.
The American Express is a familiar fixture in Scheffler's schedule, as he has participated in it for five consecutive years. However, last year, he had to withdraw due to a lingering hand injury sustained during the off-season. Despite this setback, Scheffler remains the top-ranked player in the world, showcasing his resilience and determination.
Scheffler's 2025 season was relatively low-key, with only three tournaments played after the TOUR Championship. He managed to secure victories in the Procore Championship and the Ryder Cup in September. Additionally, he achieved a respectable fourth-place finish at the Hero World Challenge in December. His recent success in official PGA TOUR events has been impressive, with three wins in his last five starts.
This year, Scheffler is eager to claim his first victory at La Quinta, a course where he has had mixed results. He has achieved four top 25 finishes in five starts at The American Express, but his highest ranking was a solo third place in his debut in 2020. The tournament, held from January 22-25, will be a challenging yet exciting event, taking place across three courses in the Palm Springs area. Other notable golfers who have committed to the event include Justin Rose, Sam Burns, Patrick Cantlay, Ben Griffin, Robert MacIntyre, and Max Homa. The full field will be finalized on January 16, adding to the excitement and anticipation surrounding Scheffler's return.