MINNEAPOLIMEDIA NEWS | Ben Kohles Leads 3M Open as Scottie Scheffler Opens With Six-Under 65

BLAINE, MN (July 24, 2026). Ben Kohles seized the first-round lead at the 3M Open in Blaine on Thursday, while world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler delivered a six-under-par 65 in his first competitive appearance at TPC Twin Cities.

Kohles completed the opening round at nine under par after shooting 62. He carried a two-stroke advantage over Gary Woodland, Jackson Koivun and Emiliano Grillo, who each posted seven-under 64s.

Scheffler finished the day tied for fifth at six under, three shots behind Kohles. Lucas Glover, Kevin Roy, Jesper Svensson and Michael Brennan were among the players sharing that position.

The four-round PGA Tour tournament continues through Sunday.

Scheffler makes first 3M Open appearance

Scheffler’s decision to enter the 2026 3M Open brought the world’s top-ranked player to Minnesota’s only annual PGA Tour tournament for the first time.

He is the first player ranked No. 1 in the world to compete in the Blaine tournament since Brooks Koepka in 2019, the inaugural year of the 3M Open.

Thousands of spectators followed Scheffler and other players around TPC Twin Cities during Thursday’s opening round. Local fans described the opportunity to see the world’s leading golfer in person as a significant moment for the tournament.

Scheffler’s performance kept him within immediate striking distance of the lead entering Friday’s second round.

Tournament carries regional economic importance

The 3M Open has become one of the northern Twin Cities suburbs’ largest annual sporting events. The tournament attracts visitors, volunteers, corporate sponsors and national television coverage to Blaine.

Its effects extend beyond the golf course. Hotels, restaurants, transportation providers and other local businesses can experience increased traffic during tournament week.

The event also introduces national audiences to Blaine and the surrounding northern metropolitan area.

TPC Twin Cities presents players with a lengthy course containing numerous water hazards and thick rough. Accuracy from the tee and sound approach play are especially important when competitors attempt to take advantage of the course’s scoring opportunities.

Defending champion Kurt Kitayama opened with a three-under 68.

Friday’s round will determine which players advance to the weekend after the tournament cut is established.

Because the leaderboard will change throughout the second round, readers should consult the PGA Tour’s official leaderboard for current positions and scores.

News Sources

PGA Tour 3M Open leaderboard
PGA Tour 3M Open facts and figures
CBS Minnesota
Official 3M Open website

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