PGA Championship talking points

As the golf world gears up for the 106th US PGA Championship at Valhalla from May 16-19, anticipation runs high for a tournament filled with intriguing storylines and potential milestones. Here’s a look at some of the main talking points ahead of the year’s second major championship:

### Scottie Scheffler’s Dominance:
Scottie Scheffler enters the championship riding a wave of unparalleled success in 2024. With four victories in his last five starts, including a second Masters title and a historic defense of the Players Championship, Scheffler has cemented his status as the world number one. However, with the imminent birth of his first child looming, questions arise about whether Scheffler can maintain his exceptional form amidst personal milestones.

### The LIV Players’ Impact:
The presence of 16 players from the Saudi-funded breakaway league, LIV, adds an intriguing dimension to the championship. While some qualified through previous major victories, others like Talor Gooch, Joaquin Niemann, and David Puig received invites. Gooch, in particular, has been vocal about the lack of pathways for LIV players into majors. Their performance at Valhalla will be closely scrutinized, especially to see if they can break into the top 10.

### Tiger Woods’ Return:
Tiger Woods, the perennial figure in golf, continues to defy expectations despite facing numerous challenges. After a tumultuous Masters where he made a record 24th consecutive cut but struggled in the third round, Woods has not competed since. His acceptance of an invite from the USGA for the upcoming US Open marks a significant juncture in his career, hinting at a potential swan song for the legendary golfer.

### Rory McIlroy’s Quest:
Rory McIlroy, a four-time major champion, seeks to end his drought and add to his illustrious resume. His memorable victory at Valhalla in 2014 showcased his prowess, but he has since faced challenges in major competitions. Despite an underwhelming performance at the Masters, McIlroy’s recent win at the Zurich Classic and flashes of brilliance offer hope for a resurgence at Valhalla.

As the championship approaches, the golfing world eagerly awaits to see how these storylines unfold on the grand stage of Valhalla, setting the stage for another thrilling chapter in golf history.