3M Open hilarious situation: Tee shot gets caught by the “long arm of the law”

The 2024 3M Open just proved that anything can happen in golf. In a surreal twist during the final round, eventual winner Jhonattan Vegas experienced an improbable moment when his tee shot on the par-5 12th hole landed on a police officer. This bizarre incident became a focal point of the tournament, adding an unexpected element of humor and surprise.

Competing at the 3M Open, where he ultimately emerged victorious, Jhonattan Vegas faced an unusual challenge. While leading the tournament, Vegas’ errant tee shot on the 12th hole didn’t just miss the fairway—it landed directly on a police officer standing nearby.

This peculiar event required the intervention of a PGA Tour official to grant Vegas a free drop, allowing him to proceed with his game.

🚨👮‍♂️🏌️‍♂️The tee shot of Jhonattan Vegas landed in the arms of a police officer 😲

pic.twitter.com/zOKWPD140e

— NUCLR GOLF (@NUCLRGOLF) July 28, 2024

The victory at the 3M Open marked a significant milestone for Vegas, who had not won a tournament since 2017. Starting the final day at -16 and in sole possession of the lead, Vegas was determined to maintain his position.

“My game is starting to feel good. The game I know I can play,” Vegas mentioned to Amanda Balonis on Saturday, reflecting his confidence.

Despite the odd hiccup on the 12th hole of the 3M Open’s final round, he managed to stay composed, ultimately securing his victory by one shot over Max Greyserman.

3M Open: The surreal tee shot that had everyone talking

Jhonattan Vegas’ shot on the 12th hole not only startled onlookers but also provided a lighthearted moment amidst the tension of the final round. As Vegas prepared to finish strong, his tee shot veered left, bypassing the gallery ropes and landing squarely on a police officer’s arm.

The officer, who was providing security at the event, found himself at the center of an amusing golf moment.

Vegas, maintaining his composure, approached the scene with a smile. The officer, equally good-natured, stood still with the ball nestled on his arm until Vegas arrived.

With the assistance of a rules official, Vegas was granted a free drop, allowing him to continue his game without penalty. Despite the unexpected detour, Vegas managed to save par on the 12th hole, keeping his 3M Open score intact.

This incident quickly became a topic of conversation among fans and commentators alike. The situation even drew humorous comparisons to the past controversy involving Scottie Scheffler, who was jokingly referenced in social media posts.

“This is Scottie’s worst nightmare,” one fan quipped, while another added, “Scheffler would already be in cuffs.”

Unlike Scheffler’s serious legal troubles earlier this year, Vegas’ encounter was met with laughter and a sense of camaraderie.

Jhonattan Vegas’ journey to the 3M Open victory was not just about navigating the peculiar tee shot incident. His overall performance throughout the tournament highlighted his determination and skill. Starting the final round with a lead, Vegas faced intense competition and the pressure of maintaining his top position.

His ability to stay focused despite the distraction of the wayward shot demonstrated his mental fortitude. Vegas’ consistent play, including his remarkable two-putt from 96 feet on the 18th hole to secure a birdie, solidified his triumph.

This win not only ended his seven-year title drought but also positioned him favorably for future tournaments, including the FedEx Cup playoffs.

Vegas’ victory at the 3M Open was a testament to his resilience. Having struggled with injuries that had previously derailed his promising career, this win marked a significant comeback.

“It’s been a tough journey, but moments like these make it all worth it,” Vegas reflected after his win.

His success story serves as an inspiration, showing that perseverance and a positive attitude can overcome even the most unexpected obstacles.

Fans and commentators were quick to draw parallels with other famous golf moments, including references to the fictional antics of Happy Gilmore. The comparison to Shooter McGavin’s infamous scene in the movie, where he plays a shot off a spectator’s foot, added to the humor of the situation.

However, unlike in the movie, Vegas was afforded the luxury of a free drop, allowing him to continue his game smoothly.

Jhonattan Vegas’ surreal tee shot incident at the 3M Open became a defining moment of the tournament. His ability to handle the unexpected challenge with grace and humor, coupled with his impressive performance, made his victory all the more remarkable. As Vegas continues to compete, this win serves as a reminder of his resilience and skill, both on and off the course.