In a whirlwind week marked by unpredictable weather, unexpected challenges, and fierce competition, Scottie Scheffler emerged victorious at the 2025 PGA Championship. Following a tumultuous start that included a torrential downpour prior to the tournament and a series of double bogeys from the top players, Scheffler's impressive performance on the back nine on Sunday solidified his status as the world's number one golfer. With this win, he has now secured his third major championship title, placing him among the elite in golf history.
Scheffler's winning percentage stands at an impressive 21.43% over his last 70 starts, a statistic that underscores his dominance in professional golf. With three victories in just 21 major starts, he boasts a remarkable 14.28% winning percentage on golf's most prestigious stages. This week, Scheffler demonstrated that even on his off days, he can still remain competitive, while his "OK" performances are often enough to lift trophies. This week was no exception, as he clinched victory with a significant five-stroke lead.
While Scheffler stole the show, Jon Rahm, a two-time major champion, also made headlines by briefly sharing the lead on Sunday. His play evoked memories of their intense rivalries during the 2022-2024 seasons, showcasing that he remains a formidable opponent. Rahm's performance included three birdies in a four-hole stretch, bringing excitement back into a tournament that had seen its fair share of ups and downs.
The 107th PGA Championship delivered more than just a showdown between two of the world's best golfers. The week highlighted various aspects worth discussing, particularly the unique challenges players faced throughout the tournament. From mud balls to non-conforming drivers, the competition was rife with talking points that underscored the unpredictable nature of the game.
With his third major championship title, Scheffler joins the ranks of legends like Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus. His achievements include being among the fastest players to reach 15 wins on the tour, as well as claiming three major victories in record time. This remarkable trajectory positions him as a player to watch, as he continues to build on his legacy in the sport.
Despite not winning, Rahm expressed satisfaction with his performance, emphasizing the positives he can take away from the tournament. He remarked, "There’s been a lot of good happening this week and a lot of positive feelings to take for the rest of the year." His reflection highlighted the importance of resilience and the lessons learned, especially as he prepares for the upcoming U.S. Open.
In contrast, Bryson DeChambeau faced challenges throughout the championship, particularly with his iron play. Despite expressing intentions to change his set of irons, he was unable to do so before the tournament, which adversely affected his performance. DeChambeau's struggles on the course are a stark reminder of the complexities of golf, where even the best players can experience downturns in form.
Rory McIlroy also faced his share of difficulties during the championship, with his performance falling short of expectations. His pre-tournament press conference indicated tensions surrounding his non-conforming driver, which may have contributed to his struggles on the course. As a champion, McIlroy's absence from the leaderboard raised questions about his current form and future performance.
While the championship concluded with an exciting finish and a deserving winner, it was not without controversy. The PGA of America faced criticism regarding communication and logistics, particularly regarding the testing of drivers and the impact of weather conditions. The setup at Quail Hollow, featuring numerous corporate hospitality tents, also drew attention, leading to concerns about accessibility for regular fans.
The recent trend in major championship victories has favored elite players, with Scheffler, Xander Schauffele, McIlroy, and DeChambeau consistently leading the pack. As we approach the U.S. Open, the spotlight will undoubtedly remain on these top contenders, setting the stage for what promises to be another thrilling chapter in professional golf.
