Scottie Scheffler took command of the US PGA Championship with a sensational third-round 65 at Quail Hollow, surging to an 11-under-par total and a three-shot lead heading into Sunday’s final round. The world number one produced a clinical display, capped by an extraordinary eagle on the par-5 14th, where he launched a three-wood from 304 yards to within three feet of the pin. That moment ignited a remarkable stretch, as he played holes 14 through 18 in five under par, including birdies at the 15th and 18th.
Scheffler’s steady rise through the field had been simmering all week. After opening with rounds of 69 and 68, his Saturday 65 was his best yet. He remained patient on a windy day that tested all aspects of his game. By the time he reached the 14th tee, he was just one under for the round. But a final surge over the feared finishing stretch dubbed the Green Mile solidified his dominance.
Scheffler’s record when holding a 54-hole lead in majors adds weight to his current position. On the two previous occasions he has led after three rounds both at Augusta National he went on to win. The signs point to a third major title unless someone from the chasing pack can produce something spectacular.
Closest to Scheffler is Alex Norén at eight under, though the Swede has never claimed a major. A tightly packed group of 10 players lies within three shots of second place, including Bryson DeChambeau, Keegan Bradley, JT Poston, Kim Si-woo, Jhonattan Vegas, and Matt Fitzpatrick. DeChambeau, who was in contention for much of the day, slipped back with a frustrating finish. He three-putted the 16th and found water on 17, turning a potentially stellar round into a merely solid 69.
Jon Rahm, who sits at six under, remains in the conversation. The Spaniard has faced scrutiny over his move to LIV Golf, especially after a period of sub-par performances at majors. Yet his play this week suggests a resurgence. Rahm acknowledged the struggles with his swing in recent months but insisted they were independent of where he was playing. He expressed a renewed sense of comfort and hinted that this week might mark a turning point.
Further down the leaderboard, Keegan Bradley also the current U.S. Ryder Cup captain matched DeChambeau’s total. His strong play could fuel discussions about whether he should be a playing captain at Bethpage later this year. Meanwhile, Rory McIlroy struggled to a 72 and now sits at two over par, effectively out of contention and likely shifting his focus to next month’s U.S. Open.
Some movement came from the likes of Matt Wallace and Adam Scott, who both gained ground on moving day. Fitzpatrick remains in touch at five under after an even-par 72.
As Sunday looms, the storyline revolves around Scheffler and whether anyone can catch him. With his form, poise, and a proven track record in closing out majors, the final round may be his coronation unless someone behind can produce a career-defining round.
