The 2026 US PGA Championship is shaping up to be a thrilling spectacle, with a tightly bunched leaderboard and a surprise leader in Alex Smalley. This tournament is living up to its reputation as a 'moving day' event, where anything can happen in the final round.
What makes this particular edition of the US PGA Championship so captivating is the unexpected rise of Alex Smalley. With a score of six under, he's in the lead, but the real intrigue lies in the fact that 14 players have shared the lead at some point, and 30 are within five shots of the leader. This level of competition is a testament to the tournament's ability to bring together a mix of top-tier players and rising stars.
The course setup at Aronimink has been a key factor in this chaotic yet exciting atmosphere. Initially, the course was set up to resemble the brutal examination typically reserved for the US Open, with severe challenges. However, the PGA of America responded to the feedback, making some adjustments that have transformed the tournament. By moving tees up and making pins more accessible, they've created a more balanced and fair playing field, allowing a wider range of players to compete.
Among the heavy hitters, Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler, the world's top two players, have been making their presence felt. McIlroy, who started at one over, managed to get to four under, sharing the lead with Smalley. His comeback is remarkable, considering he was outside the top 100 after the first round. Scheffler, on the other hand, shot a 65 on Saturday but stumbled to a 71, finding himself five shots behind the leader. Despite this setback, he remains optimistic, stating that the leaderboard is 'anybody's tournament.'
The tournament has also seen the resurgence of major winners like Justin Rose and Jon Rahm. Rose, who was struggling with recent heartache in majors, carded a superb 65 to move to two under, reigniting his hopes for a second major. Rahm, another European star, is also in the mix after a strong performance, aiming to become Spain's first US PGA winner. The fact that these established players are competing so closely with rising stars like Smalley and McNealy adds to the excitement.
The English presence in this tournament is also noteworthy. Aaron Rai, Ludvig Aberg, Nick Taylor, and Matti Schmid are all within four under, hoping to end a 107-year wait for an English winner. This diverse field of competitors, including both established names and newcomers, is a testament to the tournament's inclusivity and the high level of competition.
As the final round approaches, the tension is palpable. With the course setup favoring attack-ready players and the breeze minimal, the stage is set for a dramatic conclusion. The fact that the leaderboard is so tightly bunched means that a single great round or a single mistake could make a significant difference. This uncertainty adds to the excitement, leaving fans and players alike on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the outcome of this thrilling championship.
