The 2026 PGA Championship is underway at Aronimink Golf Club, with a thrilling third round set to unfold. The tournament is a spectacle of precision and skill, as the world's best golfers battle it out on the course. Here's a breakdown of the latest updates and key insights:
The Early Leaders
Maverick McNealy and Alex Smalley are the surprise 36-hole leaders, sharing the top spot at 4 under. Their success is a testament to their putting prowess, with McNealy calling it his 'superpower' and Smalley's analytically-inclined mother praising his top-five performance in strokes gained from the putter. This unexpected duo has defied expectations, showcasing their ability to navigate the tricky sloping greens at Aronimink.
The Contenders
Several past major champions are hot on their heels, with Hideki Matsuyama, Justin Thomas, and defending champion Scottie Scheffler all within two strokes of the lead. The presence of these familiar faces adds an extra layer of excitement to the tournament, as they aim to reclaim their glory. The leaderboard is packed with talent, with 44 players within five strokes of the lead, making it a tightly contested battle.
The Course's Challenge
Aronimink Golf Club has proven to be a formidable challenge, with the wind blowing and hole locations designed to test even the best golfers. The course's beauty is undeniable, but its difficulty is equally notable. The pin positions, such as the one on No. 14, are strategically placed to punish errant shots, as Tommy Fleetwood's struggle with a double bogey illustrates.
The Early Start
Today's tee times begin at 7:45 a.m. ET, with Jhonattan Vegas and Alex Noren leading the way. The early start time adds to the excitement, as the golfers navigate the course before the leaders head out. The tournament's schedule is carefully crafted to provide a comprehensive viewing experience for fans.
The Missing Star
Notably absent from the leaderboard is Bryson DeChambeau, who has struggled to make the cut. His performance has been a stark contrast to his previous birdies, as he finishes at 7 over par. DeChambeau's absence from the top contenders highlights the competitive nature of the tournament.
The PGA Championship's Tradition
The PGA Championship has a rich history, with a specific set of criteria for its winners. Since 2019, every champion has finished in the top 25 at the previous month's Masters, had a top-2 finish in a major, a top-3 finish on the PGA Tour in the last year, and shot a round of 5 under or better in their last start. Only three players, Scottie Scheffler, Cameron Young, and Ludvig Åberg, have met these criteria, making them strong contenders.
The Venue's Return
Aronimink Golf Club is making a highly anticipated return to the major championship arena after 64 years. The course's iconic status is further solidified by Gary Player's victory in 1962, where he finished 2-under to beat Bob Goalby by one shot. The venue's rich history adds to the excitement of the tournament.
How to Watch
Fans can tune in to the action through various broadcasting platforms. ESPN+ will provide coverage from 8 a.m. ET, with alternate streams focusing on select holes and featured groups. The main coverage will shift to ESPN from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. ET, followed by CBS from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. ET. In the UK, Sky Sports will be showing the action, ensuring a global audience can enjoy the tournament.
As the tournament unfolds, the excitement builds, with the leaders and contenders battling it out on the course. The 2026 PGA Championship promises to be a memorable event, with the world's best golfers showcasing their skills and the course's challenges.
