In a tournament filled with unexpected twists, the 2024 US PGA Championship has already delivered some unforgettable moments, including the shocking sight of Scottie Scheffler in a prison jumpsuit just hours before his second round at Valhalla. However, the drama didn't stop there, as this major showcased a series of surprises that left fans and analysts alike reeling.
Rory McIlroy, fresh off his recent victory at the Masters, faced a challenging start at Valhalla, finishing with a disappointing three-over par 74. This performance starkly contrasted with expectations, as many had envisioned Quail Hollow as McIlroy's playground. Luke Donald, the Ryder Cup captain and a former top-ranked golfer, made headlines by posting a remarkable 67, showcasing his ability to defy the notion that only big hitters can excel in this major championship.
Among the standout performances was the debut of Ryan Gerard, currently ranked 81st in the world. He surged to the top of the leaderboard with an impressive seven-under-par score, although he stumbled towards the end of his round. His 66 was enough to share the lead with Cam Davis, while Jhonattan Vegas made a late push with a birdie finish, posting a score of 65. This unexpected turn of events has left fans eagerly anticipating what the next rounds will bring.
Despite his Masters triumph, McIlroy's performance at Valhalla raised questions about his technical game. He struggled significantly with accuracy, hitting only four of 14 fairways on a course known for its long par fours. This lack of precision placed him at a disadvantage, compounded by a frustrating tally of 31 putts throughout the round. McIlroy's day started promisingly with a birdie on the 10th hole, but a series of mistakes, including a three-putt on the 11th and missed birdie attempts, hindered his progress.
Luke Donald's performance was a highlight, as he managed to maintain a steady game with 14 pars and four birdies. Despite knowing he is not in contention for the Ryder Cup, Donald expressed satisfaction with his performance: “Someone just told me it was the lowest first round in a major I’ve had since 2004,” he remarked. His focus remains on the upcoming Ryder Cup, yet he clearly relishes the opportunity to compete at this level once more.
Former US Open champion Matt Fitzpatrick, currently ranked 85th in the world, has seen a dramatic decline in form over the past year. Reflecting on his struggles, Fitzpatrick shared, “It has been really hard. It doesn’t matter how many times you remind yourself what you’ve done and the success you’ve had.” His candid admission highlights the mental challenges that come with professional golf, as he navigates through a difficult phase in his career.
Ryan Gerard's familiarity with Valhalla, having attended college in the area, played a significant role in his success. “I feel very comfortable here,” he stated, acknowledging the support from local fans and his past experiences on the course. With aspirations to improve his performance, Gerard is eager to capitalize on this momentum and make a significant impact in the tournament.
As the 2024 US PGA Championship unfolds, the surprises and dramatic performances continue to keep spectators on the edge of their seats. With each round, the question remains: Who will rise to the occasion and claim the coveted title at Valhalla?
