In the realm of golf’s four major tournaments, there is a common belief that some are more prestigious than others. The Open Championship is revered for its history and grandeur, the U.S. Open for its toughness, the Masters for its tradition and grace, and the PGA Championship for its large trophy and abundance of first-time major winners.
However, true wisdom often defies conventional thinking. In the 2020s, the PGA Championship has consistently delivered thrilling tournaments filled with compelling storylines, dramatic moments, and unforgettable highlights.
While the standout majors of the decade so far include Rory McIlroy’s recent Masters triumph, Bryson DeChambeau’s dominant U.S. Open victory, and Cam Smith’s unexpected win at the Open Championship, these tournaments have also seen some less-than-thrilling finishes with significant margins of victory.
But when we look at the PGA Championship in the 2020s, we see a different story:
2020, TPC Harding Park: This event marked the return of major golf after the COVID lockdown, and the competition was fierce. At one point, seven players were tied at -10 on the back nine, with Collin Morikawa emerging as the victor with a spectacular eagle on the 16th hole.
Phil Mickelson celebrates his victory at the 2021 PGA Championship.
(Erick W. Rasco via Getty Images)
2021, Kiawah Island: Phil Mickelson’s historic win at the age of 50 overshadowed everything else, as he became the oldest major champion ever. The massive crowd that rallied behind Mickelson in his final holes was a fitting tribute to his remarkable achievement.
2022, Southern Hills: Justin Thomas staged a remarkable comeback to win in a playoff over Will Zalatoris after Mito Pereira’s heartbreaking mistake on the final hole, adding to the tension and drama of the tournament.
2023, Oak Hill: Brooks Koepka’s triumph over adversity to claim his fifth major title was a testament to his resilience and skill, as he became the first active LIV Golf player to win a major.
2024, Valhalla: Xander Schauffele’s dramatic victory over Bryson DeChambeau marked his first major win and added a colorful twist to the tournament, especially considering Scottie Scheffler’s eventful start to the competition.
As we look ahead to the 2025 PGA Championship at Quail Hollow, there are numerous intriguing storylines to follow:
• Will Jordan Spieth complete a Career Grand Slam like McIlroy?
• Can McIlroy continue his success at a favorite course and pursue a single-season Grand Slam?
• Will Scheffler and DeChambeau secure major victories outside of their usual domains?
• Are Morikawa and Schauffele poised to claim their third major titles?
• Which LIV Golf player will shine on the big stage?
• Will Quail Hollow prove itself as a worthy major venue?
And, of course, will there be any unexpected surprises or controversies to add to the excitement of the tournament?
Despite the challenges faced by the golfing world in recent years, the PGA Championship has consistently delivered thrilling moments. As we anticipate the upcoming tournament, we eagerly await to see if this trend will continue.