The US PGA Championship 2026 is shaping up to be a thrilling spectacle, with a surprise leader and a crowded leaderboard that promises an exciting final day. Alex Smalley, a name that might not be familiar to many, is at the top of the pile after a stellar performance, shooting six under after a two-under 68. This is a remarkable feat, considering the competition's high caliber.
The third rounds of golf tournaments are often referred to as 'moving day', and this year's US PGA Championship certainly lived up to the name. With 14 players sharing the lead at various points and 30 players within five shots of the leader, the race is on. The course setup at Aronimink, which initially felt more like the US Open, has been adjusted to create a more balanced and exciting contest.
The PGA of America's decision to move some tees up and make pins more accessible has had a significant impact. This, coupled with more favorable conditions, has resulted in a diverse leaderboard, featuring both established stars and rising talents. Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy, the world's top two players, initially expressed dissatisfaction with the course setup, but the changes seem to have benefited the tournament.
McIlroy, who was outside the top 100 after a poor opening round, has made a remarkable comeback. His score of three under after a 67 on Friday is a testament to his resilience and skill. McIlroy's performance boosts his chances of adding another US PGA title to his collection, following his recent success at the Masters.
Other major winners have also made their mark. Justin Rose and Jon Rahm, both seeking their second major wins, are in strong positions. Rose's 65 on Saturday left him at two under, while Rahm's 67 kept him in the running for the career Grand Slam. The English contingent is also making its presence felt, with Aaron Rai, Ludvig Aberg, Nick Taylor, and Matti Schmid all within four shots of the lead.
However, not everyone has had a smooth ride. Scheffler, the defending champion, struggled with a 71 on Saturday, finding himself five shots behind the leader. This unexpected setback highlights the competitive nature of the tournament.
As the tournament progresses, the drama intensifies. With so many players in contention, the final round is set to be a thrilling spectacle. The US PGA Championship 2026 is a testament to the sport's unpredictability and the skill of its athletes. It's a reminder that, in golf, anything can happen, and the surprise leader might just be the one to claim the championship.
