World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler returns to TPC Craig Ranch as the heavy favorite to defend his title at the 2026 CJ Cup Byron Nelson, which begins Thursday, May 21, in McKinney, Texas.
The defending champion anticipates a stiffer test this year after the course underwent extensive renovations following the previous PGA Tour event.
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Course Renovations Add Difficulty
Scheffler played the course a few weeks ago and noted improvements. "I think tee-to-green it is definitely better than what it was before," he said.
"It's a more interesting test. The greens have added a significant amount of slope to them."
The changes require players to rethink their strategies, especially around the greens.
"There's a bit more thought that you need when it comes to playing this golf course," Scheffler added.
"The real challenge, I think, to this golf course is for sure on and around the greens."
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Last year, Scheffler dominated with a 31-under-par total, finishing eight strokes ahead of runner-up Erik van Rooyen.
He shot rounds of 61, 63, 66, and 63.
Scheffler enters this tournament after a tied-14th finish at the PGA Championship last week, a contrast to last year when he arrived as the reigning PGA Championship winner.
He is scheduled to tee off from the 10th hole at 8:33 a. m.
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ET on Thursday alongside Brooks Koepka and Si Woo Kim.
