Scottie Scheffler back in groove and on brink of third Major title

CHARLOTTE – Five months after cutting his right hand preparing a Christmas dinner, world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler has himself on the verge of a third Major title at the PGA Championship.

The 28-year-old American fired three birdies and an eagle in the last five holes to fire a six-under 65 in the third round at Quail Hollow on May 17 to seize a three-stroke lead entering the final round on May 18.

He is on 11 under 202, with Sweden’s Alex Noren on eight under after a 66 on May 17.

Scheffler has converted his past seven 54-hole leads into victories, the same style he used to win the 2022 and 2024 US Masters.

After winning nine times in 2024, including Paris Olympic gold, Scheffler struggled this season after missing the first month of the campaign due to the hand injury.

But on May 11, Scheffler won his first title of the year and matched a 72-hole PGA Tour low scoring total in the process.

Now he might just add another Major trophy, and his first that does not come with a Green Jacket from Augusta National.

“It would mean a lot,” Scheffler said. “These tournaments are very important to us and you work your whole life to have a chance to win Major tournaments.

“Tomorrow I have a good opportunity to go out there and try and win but it’s going to take another really good round.

“Someone is going to put up a great round and it’s up to me to go out there and have another really good round and finish off the tournament. Looking forward to the challenge.”

Scheffler’s closing charge lifted him in command and it began after a bogey at 13 when he blasted his tee shot at the par-four 14th some 305