Wow. Xander Schauffele wins PGA Championship at Valhalla. What a fantastic major that was. From start to finish it was gripping and went right down to the wire thanks to Viktor Hovland and Bryson DeChambeau! We had everything in this major, an arrest (yes, you read that correct), huge putts, birdie trains, 3D printed irons, huge fan favourites in the running, record breaking low scores and of course it culminated in a first time major win for Xander!
Xander Schauffele showcased his exceptional skills and resilience at the PGA Championship, culminating in a historic victory. Known for his steady play and competitive spirit, Schauffele’s triumph marks his first major win, achieved with the lowest score in major championship history. This victory not only cements his place among golf’s elite but also underscores his potential to be a dominant force in the sport. The significance of his win is amplified by the intense competition and the dramatic fashion in which he secured the title, making it a memorable moment in golfing history.
#FreeScottie!
Let’s start and the biggest talking point, Scottie Scheffler, detained and then later released on Friday after being arrested for what Scottie says was a misunderstanding. Scheffler of course was pre tournament favourite, and even put up a good score Friday all things considered. Maybe he was running on adrenaline as the commentators suggested as on Saturday he seemed really off it (by Scottie standards anyway). He posted his first over par round in 42 consecutive PGA rounds, 42! He finished 2 over for the day and that pretty much took him out of the race. It can’t have been helped by “Free Scottie” t shirts and his mugshot doing the rounds online shortly after he was released.
The scenes watching it all unfold was absolutely crazy, with comparisons drawn between him and Tiger, with his run ins with the law. With his mug shot doing the rounds online, influencers looked to cash in with “Free Scottie” t-shirts and it took no time for these t shirts to hit the course with fans.
Obviously Scottie is the best in the world right now, and you have to think, if it wasn’t for the arrest which clearly affected him on the Saturday, he would certainly have been pushing for the win. Despite Scheffler’s arrest and first over par round in 42 consecutive rounds, he still finished 13 shots under par! And tied 8th! All things considered it was another wonderful round for jailbird Scottie.
Xander Schauffele Wins PGA Championship
Xander Schauffele wins PGA Championship at Valhalla, after he has been so close, in so many majors, and always seem to come up a little short, not this weekend. He saw off the demons and held his nerve to take home the Wanamaker trophy!
On the final day of the PGA Championship, Xander Schauffele delivered a masterful performance under immense pressure. Starting strong, he maintained his composure and focus throughout the round, culminating in a stunning 6-under 65. Key moments included a challenging shot from the bunker on the 17th hole and a nerve-wracking 6-foot birdie putt on the 18th, which ultimately sealed his victory. Schauffele’s strategic play and resilience in the face of obstacles demonstrated his championship mettle.
On the Friday and Saturday, Xander looked a bit nervous and it seemed it could be a similar story of close but no cigar. But not this time, Xander took it home, here at Golfer Guide, he’s one of our favourites so we’re buzzing for him.
Bryson DeChambeau, known for his power and unconventional approach, with 3D printed clubs in hand, posed a significant challenge to Schauffele on Sunday. Finishing two groups ahead, DeChambeau posted an impressive 64, including a thrilling 10-foot birdie putt on the 18th hole that momentarily tied him for the lead. What a putt and atmosphere when that went in, it didn’t look like it had the legs and was going to come up short until it finally dropped in.
His presence on the range, staying loose for a potential playoff, added to the drama of the final round. Despite DeChambeau’s formidable effort, Schauffele’s clutch performance on the last hole ensured his hard-fought victory by a single stroke.
The Winning Putt
The tournament’s climax came on the 18th hole, where Bryson DeChambeau got a birdie to finish on 20 under par, which is what Xander was currently on. So then making his way to the 18th Xander needed a birdie to win his first major.
A fantastic chip on to the green left Xander Schauffele with a critical 6-foot birdie putt. This putt was not only a test of skill but also of nerves, with the championship hanging in the balance. With precision and calm, Schauffele lined up the putt, which broke slightly to the left, catching the edge of the cup before swirling in. This clutch birdie was pivotal, ensuring his victory over Bryson DeChambeau and securing his first major title.
As the birdie putt dropped into the hole, Schauffele’s reaction was a mix of relief and triumph. Known for his typically composed demeanor, he couldn’t contain his excitement this time. He raised both arms in jubilation, a broad smile spreading across his face. The celebration was capped off with a heartfelt hug from his caddie, Austin Kaiser, who had been with him through every high and low. Schauffele’s joyous reaction was a testament to the hard work and perseverance that led to this career-defining moment. Finally, a major champion.
Other Contenders
Viktor Hovland’s Close Call
Viktor Hovland, the reigning FedEx Cup champion, was in strong contention throughout the final round. Hovland, who was battling out of a recent slump, demonstrated remarkable resilience and on the 18th hole, he had a 10-foot putt to tie with Xander on 20 under before Bryson attempted his putt. However, he narrowly missed the birdie putt and then missed the par putt, which didn’t make any difference in terms of prize money and standing but resulted in a score of 66, finishing Viktor in third place. Hovland’s performance was commendable and highlighted his potential to contend in future majors.
Justin Rose
Justin Rose, he had to get a mention, who doesn’t love Justin Rose! We grew up watching him and he also had a notable showing at Valhalla. Rose has a reputation for consistency and precision, which he displayed throughout the tournament. However, like Morikawa, Rose couldn’t find the necessary birdies in the final round to make a significant push towards the top of the leaderboard. Despite this, his steady play and ability to remain in contention highlighted his enduring skill and competitiveness on the major stage.
Shane Lowry
Shane Lowry was another standout performer during the PGA Championship. On Saturday, Lowry tied the major record with a sensational round of 62, positioning himself as a formidable competitor heading into the final day. Although he did not secure the win, Lowry’s exceptional play was a highlight of the tournament and added to the excitement and unpredictability of the championship. This course was had so many birdie chances and on the Saturday, Lowry was taking them all.
Collin Morikawa
Collin Morikawa, a former PGA Championship winner, despite a lack of form in recent years, was also in the mix heading into the final round. Despite his efforts, Morikawa struggled to find the crucial birdies needed to close the gap on the leaders on the final day.
Collin played solidly throughout the round but ultimately couldn’t capitalise on scoring opportunities, finishing the day without the birdie surge required to contend for the title, it just wasn’t dropping for him. His performance, though short of victory, still demonstrated the consistent quality of his game and his potential to be a regular contender in future majors.
Other Notable Performances and Records
The PGA Championship at Valhalla saw several remarkable performances and record-breaking rounds. Schauffele himself opened the tournament with a 62, tying the major championship record. This feat was matched by Lowry on Saturday. Scottie Scheffler, who had an eventful week off the course, managed to shoot a 66 on Friday despite his arrest and brief jail time earlier that day. Although he fell out of contention over the weekend, his perseverance was notable.
The tournament was also marked by an array of low scores and new records, underscoring the rain-softened conditions that allowed for aggressive play. Despite the challenges and dramatic turns, Schauffele’s steady and strategic approach ultimately led him to victory, securing his place in golf history with the lowest score in major championship history.
Round Up
The 2024 PGA Championship at Valhalla will be remembered as a tournament of thrilling performances, record-breaking scores, Scottie’s arrest and dramatic finishes. Xander Schauffele’s triumph stands out as a historic achievement, securing his first major victory, finally!
With the lowest score in major championship history. His clutch birdie putt on the 18th hole encapsulated the determination and skill that defined his performance throughout the week. The win not only earned him the prestigious Wanamaker Trophy but also cemented his status as one of the elite golfers in the world.
Xander Schauffele’s wins PGA Championship is a testament to his resilience, talent, and ability to perform under pressure. This major win is likely just the beginning of many more successes on the biggest stages of golf for Xander.
His confidence bolstered and his game in top form, Schauffele is well-positioned to contend for additional majors and continue climbing the ranks in professional golf. As he moves forward, golf enthusiasts can look forward to witnessing his journey and the impact he will undoubtedly have on the sport. Congrats Xander!