Scottie Scheffler decisively claimed his third major championship with a commanding victory at the US PGA Championship, finishing five shots clear of the field at 12 under par. The World No. 1’s performance at Quail Hollow was a demonstration of dominance and composure, further cementing his status as one of golf’s brightest stars. After a year that saw him endure some of the toughest moments, including a police cell incident during a previous Wanamaker Trophy attempt, Scheffler’s triumphant return was emphatic and authoritative.
From the outset, Scheffler appeared unshakable. He began the final round holding a three-shot lead, quickly extending it to five shots in the opening holes. His experience in managing large leads in majors showed through, with a calmness that contrasted with the faltering challenges from his competitors. Notably, Jon Rahm, who mounted a late charge, was unable to sustain the pressure, ultimately finishing seven shots behind Scheffler.
Rahm’s pursuit added some drama to the final round. Birdies on the 8th and 10th holes brought him within two shots of Scheffler, igniting hope that he might challenge for the title. At one point, Rahm and Scheffler were tied after 11 holes, with Rahm’s putting in superb form. However, Scheffler quickly regained control, responding with birdies on the 10th and 14th holes. Rahm’s momentum faltered as he dropped a shot at the 16th and then found water at the 17th, effectively ending his challenge.
The tournament showcased Scheffler’s remarkable ability to maintain focus under pressure. Despite finding only four greens in regulation in the front half of the round, he steadied himself with timely birdies that allowed him to pull away once again. Even when a fairway bunker threatened his lead on the 16th, Scheffler kept his composure, demonstrating the kind of nerve that distinguishes major champions.
The venue, Quail Hollow, has drawn some criticism for hosting the PGA Championship given that it is a regular stop on the PGA Tour. Yet Scheffler’s performance erased any doubts about the championship’s prestige or challenge this year. His victory marked his 15th professional win since early 2022, underscoring a consistency and excellence that few can match. The stretch between wins last September and this May felt like a drought for Scheffler, but this major title has reasserted his dominance on the tour.
Other notable performances included Harris English, Bryson DeChambeau, and Davis Riley, who tied for second place. English finished strongly with a back-nine 31 and a total score of 65 in the final round, putting him in contention for a Ryder Cup spot. Meanwhile, DeChambeau struggled with inconsistent wedge play, shooting 70 on the last day. Despite the disappointment, he acknowledged Scheffler’s superiority and expressed determination to elevate his game to that level.
Rory McIlroy and Sergio García, two of the more experienced contenders, had less impressive tournaments. McIlroy closed with a 72 and finished three over par, signaling a need to regroup after his emotional triumph at Augusta National. García, too, felt he was below his best, admitting that his current form would likely leave him out of Ryder Cup selection unless he improved in the coming months.
Scheffler’s victory at the US PGA Championship is not just another win; it is a defining moment in a career rapidly heading towards greatness. His third major title his first outside Augusta confirms his place among golf’s elite and points to a future filled with even greater achievements. For now, he enjoys a significant payday and the continued top spot in the world rankings, while the chasing pack is left to ponder how to close the gap on a player who seems destined for golfing immortality.
