In the nightmare for golf enthusiasts, world’s number one, two and three ranked players – Scottie Scheffler, Xander Schauffele and Rory McIlroy – started their PGA Championship campaigns with a fiery burst off the 10th tee at Valhalla, sharing 5 birdies in their first 6 holes as they made the most of easier morning conditions.
The Marquee Group Breakdown
Scottie Scheffler (World No.1): Started with consecutive birdies in spite of sleep-deprived fatherhood mode
Xander Schauffele (Olympic Gold): Laser irons (100% fairways hit early)
Rory McIlroy (Masters Champ): Driving 360+ yards with renewed swagger
Why This Start Matters:
– First time since 2012 that top-3 ranked players bunched in PGA’s opening rounds
– Valhalla’s 10th hole (their starting point) played easiest on course (-0.3 avg)
– Sets tone for potential Sunday final pairing preview
Key Moments:
• McIlroy’s 423-yard drive on Par-5 10th (longest of career)
• Scheffler holing out from 87-yard wedge on 12th
• Schauffele’s streak of 13 straight greens in regulation
Visual Must:
Shot tracer comparison of all three players’ shots on the downhill 13th hole. This was more than a featured pairing – it was a statement trio giving notice that golf’s new “Big Three” era is officially here. As one veteran caddie said: “That back nine just saw more firepower than some entire tournaments.”
