Brooks Koepka missed the cut at the Scottish Open on Friday, 12 Jul 2024, after a four‑over 74 erased his opening‑round four‑under 66 and left him out of the weekend field. The veteran’s double‑bogey on the 14th hole proved decisive, sending him home early and shifting his preparation to next week’s British Open at Royal Liverpool.
What happened on Friday?
Koepka entered the second round just one shot off the lead, having carded a solid 66 on Thursday. On Friday he struggled from the first tee, accumulating a string of bogeys that pushed his round to 74. The turning point came on the back‑nine when he double‑bogeyed the par‑4 14th, a hole that had already cost several contenders. His final tally of four‑over par dropped him well outside the cut line, ending his Scottish Open campaign.
How does this affect Koepka’s season?
The missed cut adds pressure to Koepka’s schedule, as he now has only a week before the British Open at Royal Liverpool. The extra days off give him a chance to fine‑tune his game, but also mean lost competitive rhythm. Koepka, a two‑time major champion, will need to rebound quickly to stay in contention for the major title, especially after a strong start that suggested he could be a weekend threat.
Who else fell out and who is leading?
Scottie Scheffler also missed the cut, ending a 78‑event streak of making weekends. Patrick Cantlay, who shared the lead after round one, slipped out as well. Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy, Tom Kim and Jordan Smith are tied for the lead at nine‑under after Friday’s play. Jordan Smith posted a stunning seven‑under 63, propelling him into a share of first place.
What’s next for Koepka?
Koepka will likely use the unexpected break to work on his short game and course management ahead of the British Open, which begins on 16 Jul 2024. His team may focus on the tricky links conditions at Royal Liverpool, where accuracy off the tee and precise iron play are essential. If he can translate his Thursday form into a solid opening round at the major, a weekend charge could still be on the cards.
How did other players respond?
Jon Rahm, who started the tournament three‑over, bounced back with a five‑under 65 on Friday, securing the cut at two‑under overall. His birdie on the final par‑3 was just 13 inches shy of an ace, highlighting his resilience. Robert MacIntyre, the 2024 champion, posted a four‑under 66 to move within two strokes of the leaders, energising the home crowd.
The Scottish Open’s second round delivered plenty of drama, but for Brooks Koepka the story ends early. His focus now shifts to Royal Liverpool, where a strong start could still keep his major hopes alive.