Scottie Scheffler's putting woes have been a recurring theme at the PGA Championship, and his third-round performance at the Aronimink Golf Club only served to highlight this issue. With a 1-over 71, Scheffler's round was a stark contrast to the under-par scores of his competitors, who were taking advantage of the low wind conditions. The blame lies squarely on his putter, which cost him a significant 2.2 strokes on the greens, his worst single-round performance since the 2025 Charles Schwab Challenge.
What makes this situation all the more frustrating is the potential it once held. Three years ago, Scheffler was already a top iron player, but his putting held him back from achieving the consistent wins we've come to expect. Since then, with the guidance of Phil Kenyon, Scheffler has transformed his putting into a strength, ranking as a top-15 putter this year. However, the greens at Aronimink have proven to be a challenge, even for the world's top player.
The impact of this putting struggle is significant. Scheffler trails Alex Smalley by five strokes and is three behind the cluster of players at 4 under. If he had simply been able to putt at the field average, the outcome could have been very different. His misses, including three-putts and missed birdie putts, have cost him dearly, and the difference between his current position (23rd) and a potential solo second at 5 under is stark.
Scheffler's frustration was evident as he struggled on the course. Despite hitting good shots and feeling like he hit some good putts, the results didn't reflect that. The heavy winds and slope of the greens added to the challenge, making it a tough day for the golfer. This round raises questions about Scheffler's ability to consistently perform at the highest level, especially in back-to-back PGA Championships.
In my opinion, this putting issue is a critical aspect of Scheffler's game that needs addressing. While he has made significant progress, the greens at Aronimink seem to be a recurring obstacle. It will be fascinating to see how he adapts and improves his putting strategy for future tournaments, especially those with similar course conditions.
