Scheffler Concedes Putt After Spectator Shouts at Presidents Cup

Scottie Scheffler conceded Nico Echavarria’s par putt after a spectator shouted during Echavarria’s backswing at the Presidents Cup, and the players tied the 14th hole. Scheffler said the interruption was unacceptable and believed it affected Echavarria’s tee shot, though the effect of the shout has not been independently established. The incident occurred during Sunday’s singles match at Medinah Country Club. Echavarria’s drive went into the right rough after the shout. Scheffler then missed his birdie putt, leaving Echavarria with a par attempt. Scheffler conceded it, despite the distance, and the hole was halved. Echavarria said afterward that he was surprised by the concession and praised Scheffler. Scheffler told reporters he was frustrated by the interruption, saying spectators should remain quiet while a player is preparing to hit. He said he thought Echavarria would not otherwise have hit the tee shot as poorly. That was Scheffler’s assessment; the available accounts do not establish how much the shout affected the shot. According to NBC on-course reporter John Wood, Meredith Scheffler was told about her husband’s decision and said it made her want to cry.