The 108th PGA Championship is set to be a thrilling event, with a fresh and new Aronimink Golf Club setting the stage for some of the world's best players. With a mix of established stars and rising talents, this tournament promises to be a showcase of golf's finest. Here's a breakdown of some key storylines and players to watch.
Scottie Scheffler: The Defending Champion
Scottie Scheffler, the current No. 1-ranked player in the world, enters the tournament as the defending champion. However, his recent form has raised some eyebrows. After three consecutive solo runner-up finishes, including the Masters, RBC Heritage, and Cadillac Championship, Scheffler's dominance has seemingly faded. The question on everyone's mind is: what's wrong with him? The answer, according to Scheffler, is simple: winning golf tournaments is incredibly difficult. With Aronimink's unique challenges, including huge, undulating greens that demand precision with irons, Scheffler's strong suit, this course could be his best opportunity to reclaim the top spot.
Jordan Spieth: The Slam Chaser
Jordan Spieth, a 32-year-old veteran, is on a quest to complete the career grand slam. This week marks his ninth attempt at winning the PGA Championship, and the pressure is on. Spieth's recent form has been inconsistent, with six top-25 finishes and only one top-10 this season. Interestingly, his driver has been a reliable ally, while his putter has been a source of frustration. If Spieth can find a way to click all aspects of his game, even at a slightly above-average rate, he might just pull off the unthinkable and secure his place in golf history.
Cameron Young: The Rising Star
Cameron Young, a New York native, has been on a roll this season. With wins at The Players and the Cadillac Championship, along with multiple top-10 finishes, Young is a force to be reckoned with. His experience in the final group at the Masters will undoubtedly serve him well. Playing on a course outside of Philadelphia, Young has the potential to make a strong case for himself as a major contender. However, some may see his recent success as a sign of things being too good to be true, while others will be eager to see him in the mix on Sunday.
Matt Fitzpatrick: The Confident Contender
Matt Fitzpatrick, a two-time major winner, has been on a roll since his solo second at The Players. With three wins in his last five starts, including a team victory with his brother Alex, Fitzpatrick is playing at an exceptional level. His numbers speak for themselves, ranking among the top in strokes gained around the green, approach, and tee-to-green. Fitzpatrick's newfound confidence and swagger make him a serious contender, especially on a course that suits his game.
LIV Golf Players: The Distracted Contenders
The LIV Golf players, including Bryson DeChambeau and Jon Rahm, will be under the microscope this week. After a disappointing Masters performance, where only Tyrrell Hatton finished in the top three, the LIV Golf tour faces new challenges. With the Saudi PIF pulling funding, the players' focus may be divided. However, Aronimink's setup, favoring longer hitters, could play to DeChambeau and Rahm's strengths. It remains to be seen if they can rise above the distractions and challenge for the top spots.
Rory McIlroy: The Major Chaser
Rory McIlroy, a career grand slam winner, has made it clear that his career morals lie solely in major championships. His recent T-19 finish at the Truist Championship, despite a well-below-standard short game, showcased his determination. McIlroy's mindset and preparation seem to be in the right place, and he could be the dark horse of this tournament. A win at Aronimink would not only boost his confidence but also spark conversations about the possibility of a calendar slam.
The Emotional Bet
As with any major championship, the talk of an 'open' tournament is often just talk. The reality is that a select few players are on a higher pedestal than the rest. Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, Cameron Young, and Matt Fitzpatrick are the favorites entering the week. While emotions may dictate otherwise, any picks and wagers should heavily favor these four. The final few holes may not be the outcome we hope for, but the excitement and unpredictability of golf make it all the more thrilling.
